Holly
Meaning: Holly tree, the evergreen plant
Origin: English
Gender: Girl
Rank in Ireland: #74
Total births: 6,123
History: Holly has blossomed in Ireland since the 2000s, fitting for an island where holly trees have ancient Celtic significance as symbols of protection. The holly was one of the sacred trees in Brehon law. Many a Holly has been christened in churches decorated with the plant at Christmas.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Ireland’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (2025) | #69 |
| Babies named Holly in 2025 | 77 |
| Total recorded in Ireland | 6,123 |
| Peak year | 2010 (380 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #11 |
| Years in records | 1976–2025 (46 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 41 spots |
Frequently asked about Holly
What does the name Holly mean?
Holly means “Holly tree, the evergreen plant” from English roots.
What is the origin of the name Holly?
Holly has English origin. The traditional meaning is “Holly tree, the evergreen plant”.
How popular is Holly in Ireland?
Holly ranked #69 in Ireland in 2025 — given to 77 babies that year.
When was Holly most popular?
Holly peaked in 2010 with 380 babies registered that year in Ireland.
Is Holly a boy or girl name?
Holly is predominantly a girls' name in Ireland — over 90% of Hollys in registered births are female.
Is the name Holly rising or falling in popularity?
Holly has fallen 41 spots in the rankings over the last 5 years in Ireland — from #28 in 2020 to #69 in 2025.
How long has Holly been recorded in Ireland?
Holly appears in birth records in Ireland across 46 years — from 1976 through 2025.