Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Deidre

      Origin

      Irish

      Meaning

      Broken-hearted or Sorrowful One

      Variations

      Deidra, Deedre, Derdre
      The name Deidre is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Deirdre (Doire). It is traditionally understood to mean broken-hearted or sorrowful one. This meaning is deeply connected to the tragic figure of Deirdre in Irish mythology, known for her beauty and tragic fate, which has contributed to the name's connotation of sorrow and longing. The story of Deirdre is emblematic of themes such as love, loss, and tragedy, making the name particularly poignant.

      Deidre's roots can be traced back to ancient Irish legends, particularly in the tale known as The Tragic Death of Deirdre, which is part of the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology. In this story, Deirdre is prophesied to bring sorrow to her people and is destined to face severe heartbreak due to love and betrayal. The narrative has been recounted in various forms over the centuries, securing Deidre’s place in Irish cultural history as a symbol of unattainable love and tragic fate. Notably, the tale has been adapted in literature and plays, reflecting the enduring fascination with her character.

      Today, Deidre remains a relevant name, primarily in English-speaking countries, where it is often appreciated for its lyrical quality and connection to heritage. While it is less common than in previous decades, the name is still chosen by parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughters. The character of Deirdre has also been referenced in contemporary literature, film, and music, thereby renewing interest and recognition of the name. Overall, Deidre carries a legacy of deep emotional resonance, making it a choice imbued with both historical significance and modern appeal.

      Based on our records...

      Brown

      Brown

      This is the most common surname associated with Deidre.
      David

      David

      This is the most common name of those married to a Deidre.
      Deidre

      Deidre

      This is the most common name for a child of a Deidre.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1947 is when there were the most people born with the first name Deidre.

      Explore the origins of another name.