Brigid is a popular Irish name with a rich history and cultural significance. The name is derived from the Gaelic name Brighid, which means “exalted one” or “the high one."
Brigid was a goddess in ancient Irish mythology, known for her association with poetry, fertility, and the hearth. She was also considered the patron saint of arts and crafts and was said to be a protector of the people.
Brigid's Fire by artist Courtney Davis blazing on the GPO for the 2020 International Herstory Light Festival.
In the 5th century, a real-life woman named Brigid was born in Ireland and later became known as St. Brigid of Kildare. She was a nun and abbess who was known for her charity and acts of kindness and was later canonized by the Catholic Church.
St. Brigid of Kildare. (Getty Images)
The name Brigid has been a popular name in Ireland for centuries and continues to be a favorite among Irish parents today. It has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, particularly in the United States, where it is a common name for girls.
In modern times, Brigid is often changed to “Bridget” and has been used as a character name in books, movies, and television shows. It is also a popular name for fictional characters, such as "Bridget Jones," the protagonist in the eponymous novel and film.
The name Brigid has undergone several transformations over the years, and here are some of the most common versions:
Brigid
The original Irish form of the name, Brigid is still used in Ireland and other Irish-speaking countries. It is a popular name in Ireland and has a strong cultural significance.
Brighid
Another Irish form of the name, Brighid is often used as a spelling variant of Brigid. It is pronounced in a similar way to Brigid and has a similar cultural significance.
Brigit
The Old Irish version of Brigid.
Bríd
A diminutive of Brigid, Bríd is a girl's name meaning "strength or exalted one."
Bridget
The most common version of the name Brigid, Bridget is the English form of the name. It has been used in English-speaking countries for centuries and is one of the most popular Irish names of all time.
Bridie
An informal Irish form of the name, Bridie is often used as a nickname for Bridget or Brigid. It is a popular choice for parents in Ireland and has a friendly, approachable feel.
Brigida
The Medieval Latin form of Brigid.
Brigitte
The French version of Brigid.
Birgitta
A Swedish form of the name, Birgitta is used in Sweden and other Swedish-speaking countries. It is a popular name in Sweden and has a strong cultural significance.
These are just a few of the different versions of the name Brigid. Each form of the name has its own cultural significance and is associated with the Irish goddess Brigid.
Brigid is an Irish name steeped in tradition and beloved by many and is sure to continue to be a popular choice for parents in the years to come.
*Originally published in January 2023. Updated in February 2024.
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