Declining since 1992, #7,133 for girls today.
Popularity of Tierney since 1957
Babies named Tierney per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 86 |
| 1960s | 119 |
| 1970s | 186 |
| 1980s | 681 |
| 1990s | 1,208 |
| 2000s | 921 |
| 2010s | 588 |
| 2020s | 167 |
Meaning & origin
Tierney entered the U.S. naming charts in 1957, initially as a rare surname choice. It saw a steady rise through the 1970s and 1980s, reaching its peak popularity in 1993, when it ranked 1,143. Since then, its usage has declined, and in 2025 it ranked 7,133, given to roughly 1 in 107,151 newborns. The name reflects a broader trend of Irish surname adoption for girls, but it has remained relatively uncommon compared to similar names. Tierney has never been concentrated in any specific state, maintaining a modest presence nationwide. Overall, it offers a distinctive yet soft sound, with clear Irish heritage.
Tierney is an anglicized form of the Irish surname Ó Tiarnaigh, meaning 'descendant of Tiarnach,' a personal name derived from 'tiarna' meaning 'lord' or 'master.' The name has been used as a given name in the United States since the mid-20th century, peaking in popularity during the 1990s.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Tier, T
Sibling names for Tierney
Names that share Tierney's style, for a brother or sister.
