Find out how popular the first name Saoirse has been for the last 31 years (from 1993 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Saoirse by gender

Based on the last 31 years of data, Saoirse is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 270 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Saoirse.

The history of the first name Saoirse

The name Saoirse is derived from the Irish Gaelic language and is a feminine given name that means "freedom" or "liberty." It originated in Ireland and has been in use for centuries.

The name Saoirse is rooted in the Old Irish word "saor," meaning "free" or "noble." It is believed to have first appeared in ancient Irish manuscripts and texts dating back to the 8th or 9th century.

While it is difficult to pinpoint the earliest recorded instance of the name Saoirse, it has been used throughout Irish history as a symbol of the nation's struggle for independence and freedom from English rule.

One of the earliest known individuals to bear the name Saoirse was Saoirse Inghean Ghríobhtha, an Irish noblewoman who lived in the 16th century. She was a member of the powerful O'Neill dynasty and played a role in the Irish resistance against English colonization.

Another notable figure named Saoirse was Saoirse Ní Chéileachair, an Irish rebel and revolutionary who participated in the Irish Rebellion of 1798. She was born in County Wicklow in 1771 and fought alongside her husband against British forces.

In the 20th century, the name Saoirse gained renewed popularity as a symbol of Irish nationalism and the country's independence from Britain. One of the most famous individuals with this name was Saoirse Ronan, an Irish-American actress born in 1994. She has been acclaimed for her performances in films such as "Atonement" and "Lady Bird."

The name Saoirse has also been borne by other notable figures, including Saoirse Bennett, an Irish writer and journalist born in 1939, and Saoirse Duine, an Irish politician and activist born in 1962 who campaigned for women's rights and environmental causes.

While the name Saoirse has its roots in ancient Irish history, it continues to be a popular choice for parents in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora, representing a connection to their cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of freedom and independence.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Saoirse was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Saoirse, please contact us.

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