Holding steady.
Popularity of Ethne since 1978
Babies named Ethne per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 5 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 70 |
| 2010s | 26 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Ethne is a rare Irish name first recorded in 1978, with a peak interest in 2007. Despite never ranking in the U.S. top 1000, it has seen steady, if modest, use, remaining stable in the 2000s and beyond. The name's mythological tie to the mother of Cú Chulainn gives it a distinct cultural resonance. With no top states showing notable usage, Ethne remains a deeply uncommon choice, appealing to those seeking a name with Irish roots and a gentle sound.
Ethne is an Irish name derived from Old Irish 'etne', meaning 'kernel, grain, or nut'. It is also sometimes considered a variant of Eithne, which may be related to the name Aidan, meaning 'little fire'. The name appears in Irish mythology as the mother of the hero Cú Chulainn, though its modern use remains rare.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Eth, Nee
Sibling names for Ethne
Names that share Ethne's style, for a brother or sister.
