"exalted, high one"
Origin: Proto-Celtic
Language: Irish
Brigid
Girl Name
#2,660 Most Popular
Hidden Gem
2 Syllables
Ireland's most sacred name, goddess and saint
Irish
Scottish
Celtic
Classic
Spiritual
Earthy
Strong
Traditional
Meaning & Origin
"strength, power"
Origin: Old Irish
Language: Irish
The Story of Brigid
Brigid comes from the Old Irish "Brigit" or "Bríg," derived from the Proto-Celtic root meaning "high" or "exalted." In Irish mythology, Brigid was a triple goddess of healing, poetry, and smithcraft — one of the most important deities of the Celtic pantheon. Saint Brigid of Kildare (c. 451-525 AD) was a Christian abbess who absorbed much of the goddess's symbolism.
Brigid and Bridget have been among the most popular Irish female names for centuries. The more traditional spelling Brigid has seen a revival among parents seeking authentic Gaelic heritage names rather than the anglicized Bridget.
Saint Brigid is one of Ireland's three patron saints alongside Patrick and Columba. The feast of Imbolc (February 1) is sacred to both the goddess Brigid and Saint Brigid's Day, marking the beginning of spring in the Celtic calendar.
Fun Facts
- Saint Brigid's cross is a traditional Irish woven cross still made on February 1 each year
- Brigid is the only Celtic deity whose name is also a major Christian saint's name
Brigid in Other Languages
Irish
Bríd
German
Brigitte
English
Bridget
Swedish
Birgitta
Scottish Gaelic
Brìghde
Famous People Named Brigid
B
Brigid Brophy
Writer
1929
British novelist and campaigner who pioneered the public lending right for authors
S
Saint Brigid of Kildare
Religious
451
Irish abbess and patron saint of Ireland, traditionally considered the first Christian nun in Ireland
B
Brigid Fictional
Other
Triple goddess of healing, poetry, and smithcraft in Irish mythology
Quick Facts
- Gender
- Girl
- Syllables
- 2
- Popularity Rank
- #2,660
- Total SSA Count
- 65
- Cultural Origins
- Irish Scottish Celtic
- Pronunciation
- Moderate
- Formality
- Moderate
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- Low
Alternative Spellings
Common Nicknames
Brid
Biddy
Bridie
Pairs Well With
Brigid Maeve
Brigid Fiona
Brigid Grace
Brigid Rose
Brigid Aoife
Brigid Siobhan
Brigid Niamh
Sibling Names
Similar Names
Playground Safety
Kid-Friendly
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Frequently Asked Questions About Brigid
What does the name Brigid mean?
"exalted, high one" (from Proto-Celtic). "strength, power" (from Old Irish). Brigid comes from the Old Irish "Brigit" or "Bríg," derived from the Proto-Celtic root meaning "high" or "exalted." In Irish mythology, Brigid was a triple goddess of healing, poetry, and smithcraft — one of the most important deities of the Celtic pantheon. Saint Brigid of Kildare (c. 451-525 AD) was a Christian abbess who absorbed much of the goddess's symbolism.
What is the origin of the name Brigid?
Brigid has Proto-Celtic, Old Irish, Irish, Scottish, and Celtic origins. In Proto-Celtic, it means "exalted, high one". In Old Irish, it means "strength, power".
Is Brigid a boy or girl name?
Brigid is primarily used as a girl name.
How popular is the name Brigid?
Brigid is currently ranked #2660 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
What are common nicknames for Brigid?
Common nicknames for Brigid include Brid, Biddy, and Bridie.
What are good middle names for Brigid?
Popular middle name pairings include Brigid Maeve, Brigid Fiona, Brigid Grace, Brigid Rose, Brigid Aoife, Brigid Siobhan, and Brigid Niamh.
What are good sibling names for Brigid?
Names that pair well with Brigid as siblings include Aoife, Saoirse, Cormac, Finn, Niamh, Cian, and Aisling.
How many syllables does Brigid have?
Brigid has 2 syllables, making it easy to say and remember.
Is Brigid a common or rare name?
Brigid is an uncommon name, ranked #2660 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.
About the Name Brigid
Brigid is a girl name with Irish, Scottish, and Celtic origins . The name means "exalted, high one" in Proto-Celtic .
Brigid is currently ranked #2,660 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
The name Brigid has 2 syllables, making it easy to pronounce and remember.
Common nicknames for Brigid include Brid, Biddy, and Bridie. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.
Alternative spellings of Brigid include Brighton, Brigitte . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.