What does Diarmuid mean?
Diarmuid is usually read “without envy.” Diarmuid Ua Duibhne is a hero of the Fianna.
What does Cathal mean?
Cathal joins the Irish words for “battle” and “rule,” “strong in battle.”
Diarmuid vs Cathal
Which is more popular?
Diarmuid and Cathal are given to a similar number of US babies today.
| Diarmuid | Cathal | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Without envy | Strong in battle |
| Origin | Irish | Irish |
| Gender | Boy | Boy |
| Pronunciation | DEER-mid | KAH-hal |
| Syllables | 2 | 2 |
| First appeared | 2009 | 1998 |
| Peak year | 2013 (6) | 2000 (10) |
| In 2025 | 0 | 0 |
| Trend | Declining | Declining |
Popularity over time, 1880–2025
Diarmuid
Cathal
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Births by decade
| Decade | Diarmuid | Cathal |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 6 | 5 |
| 2000s | 5 | 29 |
| 1990s | 0 | 6 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Diarmuid or Cathal more popular?
Diarmuid and Cathal are given to a similar number of US babies today.
What is the difference between Diarmuid and Cathal?
Diarmuid means Without envy (Irish origin), while Cathal means Strong in battle (Irish origin).
Which name is older, Diarmuid or Cathal?
In US records, Diarmuid first appears in 2009 and Cathal in 1998, so Cathal has the longer recorded history.