Maire: Meaning, Origins, Variations, And Significance

Are you considering the name Maire for your baby? This unique name has a rich history and cultural significance that may appeal to many parents. In this article, we will explore the origins, meaning, variations, famous people, literature and popular culture, popularity, regional differences, psychology of naming, gender neutrality, etymology, mythology and folklore, religion, and nicknames associated with the name Maire. By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of this intriguing name and its potential for your child.

1. Origins

The name Maire has its roots in Ireland, where it is a variant of the name Mary. Mary is derived from the Hebrew name Miriam, which means “bitterness” or “rebellion.” The name Maire is also used in other cultures, such as France and New Zealand, where it is pronounced “my-ree” and means “beloved” or “wished-for child.”

2. What does Maire mean?

The meaning of Maire varies depending on the culture and language. In Ireland, Maire is a variant of Mary, which means “bitterness” or “rebellion.” In France and New Zealand, Maire means “beloved” or “wished-for child.”

3. Variations

There are several variations of the name Maire, including Mairéad, Máirín, and Máire. Mairéad is the Irish Gaelic form of Margaret, while Máirín is a diminutive form of Máire. Máire is the Irish Gaelic form of Mary.

4. Famous People

There have been several notable people with the name Maire, including Maire Brennan, an Irish folk singer and member of the band Clannad, and Mairead Maguire, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate from Northern Ireland.

5. Literature and Popular Culture

The name Maire has been used in literature and popular culture, particularly in Ireland. In the novel “The Country Girls” by Edna O’Brien, the main character is named Kate/Maire. In the TV series “Ballykissangel,” one of the main characters is named Mairead.

6. Popularity

The name Maire is not a common name in the United States. According to the Social Security Administration, it has not ranked in the top 1000 names for any year since 1900.

7. Regional Differences in Popularity

The name Maire is more common in Ireland and other countries with Irish heritage. It is less common in other regions of the world.

8. Psychology of Naming

Parents may choose the name Maire for their child for a variety of reasons, including cultural heritage, personal preference, or the desire for a unique name. The name Maire may also be associated with qualities such as strength, rebellion, or belovedness.

9. Gender-Neutral Name

The name Maire is typically associated with females, but it can be considered gender-neutral in some cultures. In New Zealand, for example, Maire is a unisex name.

10. Etymology

The name Maire is derived from the Irish Gaelic form of Mary, which means “bitterness” or “rebellion.” The name Mary is derived from the Hebrew name Miriam, which means “bitterness” or “rebellion.”

11. Mythology and Folklore

There are several mythological and folkloric stories associated with the name Maire. In Irish mythology, Maire was the wife of Fionn Mac Cumhail, a legendary hero. In New Zealand, Maire is the name of a tree that is sacred to the Maori people.

12. Religion

The name Maire is not associated with any particular religion or religious figure. However, the name Mary is often associated with the Virgin Mary in Christianity.

13. Nicknames

Common nicknames for Maire include Máiréad, Máirín, and Máire.