Ailish is a unique and beautiful Irish given name for girls that has gained popularity in recent years. The origin of the name Ailish can be traced back to the Irish language, where it is derived from the word "ailil" which means "claimant" or "noble". This name was traditionally used as a pet form of the name Áine, which means "radiance" or "shining light".
The name Ailish has a rich history in Ireland and has been associated with several notable figures throughout the centuries. One famous bearer of this name is Ailish Campbell, who was a Scottish aristocrat and the wife of Colin Campbell, 1st Earl of Argyll. She was known for her intelligence, charm, and beauty, and was considered one of the most influential women in Scotland during the 17th century.
Another notable figure with the name Ailish is Saint Ailbhe, who was an Irish saint from the early Middle Ages. She was known for her kindness and generosity towards the poor and needy, and was eventually canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church.
Today, the name Ailish continues to be popular among parents looking for unique and meaningful names for their daughters. It is often associated with qualities such as nobility, radiance, and kindness, thanks to its historical significance and association with notable figures throughout history. Despite its Irish origins, the name Ailish has also gained popularity in other English-speaking countries around the world.
The name Ailish experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a total of 636 babies born with this name between 1991 and 2023. The most popular years were 2016 and 2017, with 38 and 34 births respectively. Conversely, the least popular years were 1991, 2022, and 2023, with only 6, 16, and 10 births each. Overall, there was a noticeable decline in the number of babies named Ailish after the peak years, suggesting that its popularity may have been more cyclical rather than consistently trending upward or downward over time.