Deidra – Meaning and Origin
Deidra is a feminine given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic name Deirdre, which means “sorrowful” or “melancholy”. The name was popularized in the English-speaking world by the character Deirdre in the play Deirdre of the Sorrows, written by Irish poet William Butler Yeats in 1910.
The name Deidra has been used since the early 20th century, but it didn’t become popular until the 1970s. It has since become a popular choice for parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful name for their daughter.
Popularity
Deidra is not a particularly common name in the United States. According to Social Security Administration data, it ranked at #1,845 in 2019. However, it is more popular in other countries such as Ireland and Scotland, where it ranks among the top 100 names.
Famous People Named Deidra
There are several famous people who have been given the name Deidra. These include American actress Deidra Hall, British singer-songwriter Deirdre O’Kane, and American author Deidre Knight.
Variations of the Name
The name Deidra can also be spelled as Deirdre or Dierdre. Other variations include Dedra, Diedre, and Dierdra.