Name Meaning & Origin
🔊 DEH-ree dɛrɪ
"Oak place"
Data last updated: 2025 SSA records
In Irish mythology, Derry was believed to be a sacred oak grove, a place of refuge, and a center of ancient religious and spiritual practices. In Christian tradition, Derry is associated with Saint Colmcille, who is said to have founded the city in the 6th century.
Derry is a male given name, often an abbreviation of Diarmuid or its anglicisation Dermot. It can also be a diminutive of Alexander. Among those with the name are:Derry Beckett (1919–1959), Irish Gaelic footballer and hurler Derry Brabbs, British landscape photographer and author Derry Clarke, Irish celebrity chef Derry Giles,, Famous Baltimorean Derry Gowen (1933–2017), Irish hurler and Gaelic footballer Derry Grehan, Canadian guitarist with Honeymoon Suite Derry Hayes (1927–2005), Irish hurler Derry Herlangga, Indonesian footballer Derry Irvine, Baron Irvine of Lairg, British lawyer, judge, and political figure Derry Quinn (1918–1987), English screenwriter and novelist Derry Mathews, English lightweight boxer Derry Moore, 12th Earl of Drogheda, British photographer Derry Murkin,
A name derived from the Old English 'deor' meaning 'dear' or 'dear one'.…
Emotional Traits
Hidden Personality
Lucky Colors
Numerology: Numerologically, Derry is a name of deep emotional sensitivity and strong intuition. Those with this name are compassionate and caring, with a strong desire to help others.
Life Path 7 — Wisdom & Introspection: Analytical, spiritual, and truth-seeking.
Cultural Impact
In the modern sense, Derry is best known as the second-largest city in Northern Ireland and the historical capital of the Province of Ulster. It has been a major cultural and artistic hub, with a vibrant arts scene, numerous festivals, and a rich history that is preserved through its numerous historic sites, some of which date back to the medieval period.
Spiritual Significance
In ancient Irish mythology, Derry was believed to be a sacred oak grove, a place of refuge, and a center of ancient religious and spiritual practices. The name "Derry" is derived from the ancient Irish word "Doire," which means "oak grove." In Christian tradition, Derry is associated with Saint Colmcille, who is said to have founded the city in the 6th century. The city is home to numerous churches, with the most famous being the historic Derry Cathedral, also known as St. Columb's Cathedral, which is dedicated to the saint. This medieval cathedral, built in the late 17th century, is a significant pilgrimage site for Catholics, and its beautiful stained glass windows and intricate architecture are awe-inspiring. The spiritual significance of Derry is deeply interwoven with its religious history and continues to be celebrated and honored by its residents and visitors alike.
Age breakdown · state data · decade charts · popularity trend — all on the full statistics page.
Root element "Derry" emerges in (Derry is of English origin, derived from Old Irish 'doire' meaning oak) tradition, carrying the core meaning "Oak place".
Used in English literary and religious texts, spreading through cultural exchange.
Carried across regions through trade, religion, and migration. Multiple spelling variants develop.
Standardized in its current form. Continues to be used across multiple cultures worldwide.
~1,678 people named Derry in the US. Peaked in 1957 with 55 recorded uses.
Derry means "Oak place" and is a popular Christian name with deep spiritual significance.
Yes, Derry is a beautiful Christian name that carries positive meaning and is widely used in Christian communities around the world.
Derry has (Derry is of English origin, derived from Old Irish 'doire' meaning oak) origins and is rooted in Christian tradition and culture.
The Life Path number for Derry is 7, associated with Wisdom & Introspection. Soul Urge: 5. Personality: 11.
Derry is Predominantly Male. Based on US data, 92% male and 8% female.
Approximately 1,678 people in the United States are named Derry. The name peaked in 1957 with 55 recorded uses.
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