Caoimhe

Caoimhe is an Irish female name, from the Irish-Gaelic “caomh” meaning “gentle” with an expanded definition of “beauty, grace, courtesy”. Caoimhe is also considered the female equivalent of the Irish masculine name Caoimhín (Kevin), derived from the same Old Irish elements “caomh” (beautiful, gentle) and “ghín” (born), or “handsomely born”. Caoimhín has been a long-standing favorite boy’s name in Ireland, owing much of his success to a 6th century saint Caoimhín (anglicized to St. Kevin of Glendalough) who lived as a hermit in a tiny, remote rock cave in the glacial valley of Glendalough, Ireland (about 30 miles south of Dublin). He represented one of the so-called Green Martyrs of Ireland – men who opted out of society to live a solitary existence, often subjecting themselves to harsh environments, where they alone could focus on their scripture studies and consecrate themselves wholly to God. St. Caoimhín’s learned piety soon spread throughout Ireland, and pilgrimages were made to Glendalough bringing people eager to learn from him. Eventually a monastery grew up around St. Kevin’s inspiration, and he became a beacon saint among the Irish people. Celtic Christians have a long tradition of adopting pious names for their children, so it’s no surprise that Caoimhín/Kevin has remained in circulation for so long. Caoimhe/Keeva is the natural feminine equivalent, but the name’s popularity in more modern times is further bolstered by her favorable meaning (gentle, beautiful, kind).