A strikingly rare name for baby girls, Ríoghnach, was given to just two children in Ireland last year, according to new data. Despite its deep historical and cultural significance, the name has never entered the country’s top 100 baby names, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking something truly uncommon. Pronounced either ree-uh-nah or ree-uh-knock, Ríoghnach is closely tied to Ireland’s royal past, with roots in ancient mythology.
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Figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) show that Ríoghnach was listed in the Irish baby name charts for 2023, albeit in a very limited fashion. With fewer than three girls receiving the name last year, it ranked at 625th. A variation in spelling, Ríonach, also appeared with equally low usage, reflecting the name’s rarity. However, a simplified version, Ríona, was far more common, landing at 142nd place with 33 girls receiving the name.
Steeped in Irish legend, Ríoghnach is often associated with the wife of an early High King of Ireland. This connection lends the name a regal, almost mythical quality that appeals to those who value historical and cultural resonance in naming. For many, it offers not just uniqueness, but a meaningful link to Ireland’s heritage.
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While uncommon, the name has been carried by several notable Irish women. Among them are filmmaker Ríoghnach Ní Ghrioghair and Ríoghnach Connolly, a celebrated traditional sean-nós singer. Their accomplishments stand as a testament to the name’s enduring elegance and cultural richness, further enhancing its appeal as a meaningful choice for modern parents.
