Darby is a unique and distinctive given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname Ó Dochartaigh, which means "descendant of Dochartach". The name Dochartach itself means "hurtful" or "oblique", possibly referring to someone who was witty or clever in a sarcastic way.
The surname Ó Dochartaigh has a long and rich history in Ireland. It is believed to have originated in County Donegal, where the clan was known for its bravery and military prowess. The name Darby has been associated with many notable figures throughout history, including Sir Cahir Ó Dochartaigh, who fought against the English during the Nine Years' War in the early 17th century.
In more recent times, the name Darby has been used as a given name, particularly in Ireland and other parts of the English-speaking world. It is often chosen for its distinctive sound and its Irish heritage. While it may not be as common as some other Irish names, such as Patrick or Brendan, Darby remains a popular choice among parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child.
Overall, Darby is a name with a rich history and a distinctive meaning. Whether used as a given name or a surname, it carries with it the weight of centuries of Irish heritage and tradition.
The name Darby has seen a significant rise in popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 8219 births recorded since 1936.
From the 1930s to the 1950s, the number of babies named Darby remained relatively low, ranging from 5 to 51 births per year. However, beginning in the late 1950s and throughout the 1960s and 1970s, there was a noticeable increase in popularity, with over 30 births per year recorded each year.
The peak of Darby's popularity occurred in the mid-1990s, with a high of 491 births in 1995. This trend continued into the late 1990s and early 2000s, with over 300 births per year recorded each year.
However, since the early 2000s, there has been a decline in popularity for the name Darby. Between 2006 and 2022, the number of babies named Darby has decreased significantly, with fewer than 150 births recorded each year. Despite this decline, Darby remains a popular choice for parents, with 74 births recorded in 2023.
Overall, these statistics demonstrate that while Darby's popularity has fluctuated over the years, it has remained a consistent and recognizable name in the United States.