10-05-2025
Beautiful baby name faces extinction after being given to just two girls last year
A beautiful name for a baby girl was only given to two youngsters last year, it has been reported.
The name has never made it to the top 100 list in Ireland, making it a unique option for expectant parents.
Ríoghnach - pronounced ree-uh-nah or ree-uh-knock - is linked to royalty in Ireland and holds historical significance.
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It translates to 'queenly' in Irish, derived from the word for 'queen'.
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According to the latest data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO), Ríoghnach appeared on the Irish baby name charts in 2023, albeit in a more exclusive manner.
With less than three girls named Ríoghnach last year, it holds the 625th spot.
Rooted in Irish mythology, Ríonach (an alternative spelling) is often associated with the spouse of one of Ireland's earliest High Kings, infusing the name with a touch of ancient Irish history.
For those who value the significance behind names, Ríoghnach provides an opportunity to resonate with Ireland's regal past, bestowing a Royal and grand aura on any child named so.
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Intriguingly, Ríonach, the more conventional spelling, was also assigned to fewer than three baby girls in 2023.
The name Ríona, a simplified variant, secured the 142nd spot on the list, with 33 newborn Ríonas, indicating that while Ríoghnach itself remains relatively uncommon, its derivatives have left a more significant imprint on Irish baby names in recent times.
Although it may not be as prevalent as other Irish names, Ríoghnach has been carried into the world by several prominent individuals.
Among them are Ríoghnach Ní Ghrioghair, a gifted film director, and Ríoghnach Connolly, a renowned traditional sean nós singer.
These celebrated name bearers stand as a testament to the elegance and cultural depth of this unique choice.
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