Caoimhe

Caoimhe is a feminine given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish word caomh, meaning gentle, kind, or noble, and is commonly interpreted as conveying gentleness or beauty. The name has ancient Gaelic roots and is used primarily in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora. Spelling variants include Keeva and Keva, while Caoimhe remains the standard Irish form.

Pronunciation varies by dialect. In Irish contexts the name is usually pronounced approximately as KWEE-va or KWEEN-va, while in English-language contexts it is commonly rendered as KEE-və or KEE-vah. The different pronunciations reflect the intricacies of Irish spelling and anglicization.

In the modern era, Caoimhe has grown in popularity in Ireland, particularly among Irish-speaking and bilingual communities, and has spread to Irish communities abroad through overseas migration. The name is often chosen by parents seeking a distinctly Irish given name with a traditional meaning.

Notable people with the name include Caoimhe Butterly, an Irish humanitarian and activist known for work in various international human rights causes. The name appears in broader Irish and diaspora contexts and is commonly found across generations in Ireland.

See also lists of Irish given names and discussions of Gaelic naming practices for more context on how Caoimhe fits within traditional and contemporary Irish naming conventions.