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Delaney
Pronounced duh-LAY-nee /dəˈleɪ.ni/High
Meaning: An Irish surname — variously 'descendant of Dubhshlaine (the dark challenger)' (Irish) and 'from the alder grove' (French de l'aunaie); used for both sexes; routes layeredLow
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Delaney is an Irish surname — variously 'descendant of Dubhshlaine (the dark challenger)' (Irish) and 'from the alder grove' (French de l'aunaie; routes layered, which we note). Used for both sexes, here for a boy (slug distinguished; said 'duh-LAY-nee').
In the U.S. it appears for both sexes (more often girls'). Rare for a boy, the-dark-challenger at the root, and lyrical.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Delaney mean?
Delaney is an Irish surname, variously 'descendant of the dark challenger' and 'from the alder grove'; used for both sexes; here for a boy. The routes are layered.
How do you pronounce Delaney?
It's said duh-LAY-nee /dle.ni/ — three syllables, stress on the second.
Is Delaney a boy or girl name?
Delaney is used for both sexes (more often girls'); this page covers its use as a boy's name.
How popular is Delaney?
Delaney is uncommon for girls and very rare for boys.