Dáithí

Boy Name
Pronunciation:/ˈdɑː.ɪ.θi/

Dáithí: a male name of Irish (Gaelic) origin meaning "This name derives from the Old Irish, meaning “swiftness, nimbleness”". It derives from the Irish (Gaelic) word "Dáithí".

Parents seeking a meaningful masculine name often discover Dáithí, drawn to its Irish (Gaelic) heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Old Irish, meaning “swiftness, nimbleness”". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.

Quick Facts About Dáithí

Quick facts about Dáithí
OriginIrish (Gaelic)
GenderBoy name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Old Irish, meaning “swiftness, nimbleness”. Daithi, the last pagan king of Ireland, ruled from 405 AD to 426 AD, and he had twenty-four sons. Along with Crimhthan the Great and Niall of the Nine Hostages, Daithi led Irish fleets to raid the Roman Empire. He was killed by lightning in the Alps and is buried under a standing stone called “King Daithi’s Stone.” Daithi, Dáithí, Daithí, Dahey, and Dahy represent a form of David.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

Dáithí

How to Pronounce Dáithí

Dáithí is pronounced /ˈdɑː.ɪ.θi/

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Dái-thí
  2. Say it like: "DÁI-THÍ"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Usage & Popularity

Dáithí is predominantly used in irish speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

irish
Name Relationships

Dáithí is a variant form of David, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dáithí
What does the name Dáithí mean?
Dáithí means "This name derives from the Old Irish, meaning “swiftness, nimbleness”. Daithi, the last pagan king of Ireland, ruled from 405 AD to 426 AD, and he had twenty-four sons. Along with Crimhthan the Great and Niall of the Nine Hostages, Daithi led Irish fleets to raid the Roman Empire. He was killed by lightning in the Alps and is buried under a standing stone called “King Daithi’s Stone.” Daithi, Dáithí, Daithí, Dahey, and Dahy represent a form of David.". The name comes from Dáithí. This irish (gaelic) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Dáithí for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old Irish, meaning “swiftness, nimbleness”. Daithi, the last pagan king of Ireland, ruled from 405 AD to 426 AD, and he had twenty-four sons. Along with Crimhthan the Great and Niall of the Nine Hostages, Daithi led Irish fleets to raid the Roman Empire. He was killed by lightning in the Alps and is buried under a standing stone called “King Daithi’s Stone.” Daithi, Dáithí, Daithí, Dahey, and Dahy represent a form of David." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Dáithí's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Dáithí?
Dáithí is a irish (gaelic) name. The name traces back to Dáithí. The name remains closely tied to irish naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The irish (gaelic) meaning "This name derives from the Old Irish, meaning “swiftness, nimbleness”. Daithi, the last pagan king of Ireland, ruled from 405 AD to 426 AD, and he had twenty-four sons. Along with Crimhthan the Great and Niall of the Nine Hostages, Daithi led Irish fleets to raid the Roman Empire. He was killed by lightning in the Alps and is buried under a standing stone called “King Daithi’s Stone.” Daithi, Dáithí, Daithí, Dahey, and Dahy represent a form of David." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Dáithí developed as a form of David, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Dáithí a boy or girl name?
Dáithí is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In irish (gaelic) tradition, Dáithí has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Old Irish, meaning “swiftness, nimbleness”. Daithi, the last pagan king of Ireland, ruled from 405 AD to 426 AD, and he had twenty-four sons. Along with Crimhthan the Great and Niall of the Nine Hostages, Daithi led Irish fleets to raid the Roman Empire. He was killed by lightning in the Alps and is buried under a standing stone called “King Daithi’s Stone.” Daithi, Dáithí, Daithí, Dahey, and Dahy represent a form of David." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Dáithí?
Dáithí is pronounced "/ˈdɑː.ɪ.θi/". This pronunciation follows ga language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Dáithí is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with irish (gaelic) names, listening to a native speaker say Dáithí can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Dáithí?
Dáithí is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Dáithí offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Dáithí's popularity may vary between irish (gaelic) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old Irish, meaning “swiftness, nimbleness”. Daithi, the last pagan king of Ireland, ruled from 405 AD to 426 AD, and he had twenty-four sons. Along with Crimhthan the Great and Niall of the Nine Hostages, Daithi led Irish fleets to raid the Roman Empire. He was killed by lightning in the Alps and is buried under a standing stone called “King Daithi’s Stone.” Daithi, Dáithí, Daithí, Dahey, and Dahy represent a form of David." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Dáithí holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Dáithí?
Dáithí is a form of David. Over time, David developed into several variations, with Dáithí emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In irish (gaelic) tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Old Irish, meaning “swiftness, nimbleness”. Daithi, the last pagan king of Ireland, ruled from 405 AD to 426 AD, and he had twenty-four sons. Along with Crimhthan the Great and Niall of the Nine Hostages, Daithi led Irish fleets to raid the Roman Empire. He was killed by lightning in the Alps and is buried under a standing stone called “King Daithi’s Stone.” Daithi, Dáithí, Daithí, Dahey, and Dahy represent a form of David.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Dáithí might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In irish, Dáithí may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Dáithí commonly used?
Dáithí is used primarily in irish naming traditions. Though irish (gaelic) in origin, Dáithí found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Old Irish, meaning “swiftness, nimbleness”. Daithi, the last pagan king of Ireland, ruled from 405 AD to 426 AD, and he had twenty-four sons. Along with Crimhthan the Great and Niall of the Nine Hostages, Daithi led Irish fleets to raid the Roman Empire. He was killed by lightning in the Alps and is buried under a standing stone called “King Daithi’s Stone.” Daithi, Dáithí, Daithí, Dahey, and Dahy represent a form of David." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Dáithí into their naming traditions. A child named Dáithí will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Dáithí is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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