Clodagh

A popular choice in Ireland, Clodagh was the name of a river and later a saint. The "cloddy" aspect of the name has prevented it from spreading beyond Ireland, but that could change with the rise of other Irish choices like Maeve and Orla.

The name was first used back in the 19th century, when it was chosen by the Marquess of Waterford, the County through which the river runs. The first bearer, Lady Clodagh Anson, a philanthropist and writer, also gave the name to her daughter, and hoped it would stay a rarity.

It has gone on to rank in the Top 50 in Ireland and the Top 25 in Northern Ireland and in a recent year, ranked just outside the England and Wales Top 1000. Pronounced as KLAW-duh or KLO-duh depending on region, it shares similarities with Chloe, Clara, Cleo, and Clover.

While the exact meaning of the name is unknown, it has been suggested it means "stony river" or "muddy banks".

Famous namesakes are singer Clodagh Rodgers and chef Clodagh McKenna.

Pronounced KLO-duh.

As of October 2026, Clodagh ranked #10268 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #7469 in 2018.