Derry is a unique and distinctive given name of Irish origin. The name is derived from the city of Derry, which is located in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland. The city's name comes from the Irish word "Doire," meaning "oak grove."
The name Derry has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. According to legend, the city was founded by the Celtic warrior king, Cathair Mor O' Connor, in the 6th century AD. The city was initially known as Doire Calgaich, which translates to "oak grove of Colmcille," after an early Irish saint who is believed to have founded a monastery there.
Over time, the name evolved from Doire Calgaich to its current form, Derry. Today, it is used as both a city name and a given name throughout Ireland and beyond.
While Derry is not a particularly common name, it has been carried by notable individuals throughout history. For example, Derry Quinn was a prominent Irish politician in the early 20th century, while Derry Irvine served as the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland from 1995 to 1997.
In summary, Derry is an ancient and historic name with deep roots in Irish culture and history. It has been carried by notable individuals throughout the centuries, and its unique sound and meaning make it a distinctive choice for parents looking for something different for their child's name.
Here are some statistics regarding the name Derry:
* From 1914 to 1932, there were an average of approximately 8 births per year with the name Derry.
* The years with the highest number of births were 1934 and 1947, each with 27 births.
* During the 1950s, the number of babies named Derry fluctuated between 24 and 50 per year.
* In the 1960s, there was an average of about 28 births per year with the name Derry.
* From 1970 to 2003, the number of babies named Derry ranged from a low of 5 in 1992 to a high of 23 in 1985.
* After 2004, the number of births with the name Derry decreased significantly, with an average of fewer than 7 births per year since then.