Irish boy name
Laoghaire Name Meaning, Origin & Pronunciation
Laoghaire means calf herder. From Irish laogh, meaning calf, and the suffix suggesting a keeper, so calf-herder.
Laoghaire is an old Irish name linked to laogh, meaning calf, and it was borne by High King Lóegaire mac Néill at the time of Saint Patrick, as well as by the Ulster hero Lóegaire Búadach. The pronunciation varies from region to region, usually LEER-ee or LAY-ree. Leary is the common anglicised form and Ó Laoghaire gave the surname O'Leary. It is a traditional name that remains in use in Ireland, especially in Munster, and is gaining attention again. Laoghaire is gentle, historic and distinctive, with a clear link to pastoral life.
Variants of Laoghaire
LearyLóegaireLaeghaire
Laoghaire popularity: Ireland vs the US
Laoghaire does not appear in the official Irish or US baby name rankings, which only list names given to a handful of babies a year. It is a rare choice in both countries.
Data: US Social Security Administration (public domain) and Central Statistics Office, Ireland (CC BY 4.0). Irish accented spellings (such as Síle) are only recorded from 2018, so earlier years combine spellings.
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Laoghaire mean?
Laoghaire means "calf herder". From Irish laogh, meaning calf, and the suffix suggesting a keeper, so calf-herder.
How do you pronounce Laoghaire?
Laoghaire is pronounced LEER-ee.
What is the origin of Laoghaire?
Laoghaire is of Irish origin. From Irish laogh, meaning calf, and the suffix suggesting a keeper, so calf-herder.