Niamh

/NEEV/

IrishGirlLoved 1 time

Niamh is an Irish girl's name pronounced /NEEV/. An ancient name representing brightness and radiance, famously borne by a mythological princess.

Meaning of Niamh

An ancient name representing brightness and radiance, famously borne by a mythological princess.

Niamh is an Old Irish name derived from the word 'niam', meaning 'luster', 'sheen', or 'brilliance'. In Irish mythology, she was the daughter of Manannán mac Lir and a princess of Tír na nÓg, known as 'Niamh of the Golden Hair' for her celestial radiance.

Origin
Irish
Pronunciation
/NEEV/

Cultural background

The name remains a perennial favorite in Ireland and is frequently chosen to honor Gaelic heritage. It is traditionally used for girls and is often associated with the legendary Land of Youth.

Variations & nicknames

  • Neeve
  • Neve
  • Niam
  • Niave
  • Neev

Famous people named Niamh

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Niamh Cusack

    Irish actress known for her roles in 'Heartbeat' and numerous stage productions.

    Film · 1980s-present

  • Niamh Kavanagh

    Irish singer who won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1993 with 'In Your Eyes'.

    Music · 1990s-present

  • Niamh Wilson

    Canadian actress known for her roles in the 'Saw' film series and 'Degrassi'.

    Film · 2000s-present

  • Niamh Fahey

    Professional footballer who plays for Liverpool and the Republic of Ireland national team.

    Sport · 2000s-present

  • Niamh Briggs

    Former rugby union player and captain of the Ireland women's national team.

    Sport · 2008-2018

  • Niamh Parsons

    Contemporary Irish traditional folk singer.

    Music · 1990s-present

Frequently asked about Niamh

What does Niamh mean?
Niamh is an Irish name meaning 'brightness', 'radiance', or 'luster'.
How do you pronounce Niamh?
Niamh is typically pronounced as 'NEEV', rhyming with the word 'sleeve'.
Is Niamh a boy or girl name?
Niamh is traditionally a girl's name of Irish origin.
Who was Niamh in Irish mythology?
She was a princess of Tír na nÓg who fell in love with the hero Oisín and brought him to the Land of Youth.

Love Niamh? Get more names like it

We'll email you 5 fresh Irish names each week — free, no spam.

Compare Niamh with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Irish names

See all Irish names
Find more names like Niamh