Derval Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Derval
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name DERVAL. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Derval
Gender
Female
Origin
Irish
Lucky Number
8
Meaning of the Name
Derval is a beautiful Irish female name meaning 'true desire' or 'heart's longing'. It represents authenticity of purpose and following one's genuine aspirations.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Saturn
Positive Nature
Ambitious, efficient, realistic, and authoritative.
Negative Traits
Materialistic, stressed, confrontational, and can be overly ambitious.
Lucky Colours
Dark blue, black.
Lucky Days
Saturday.
Lucky Stones
Blue sapphire, amethyst.
Harmony Numbers
2, 4, 6.
Best Suited Professions
Business leaders, managers, financial services, law enforcement.
What People Like About You
Leadership, determination, organizational skills.
Famous People Named Derval
Derval O'Rourke
Athlete
Irish former sprint hurdler, European Indoor Champion and three-time Olympian
Derval O'Malley
Politician
Irish Progressive Democrats politician who served as Minister for Justice
Derval O'Keeffe
Actress
Irish actress known for her work in Irish theatre and television productions
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
Extended Personality Analysis
Women named Derval are typically characterized by their strong sense of purpose and emotional authenticity. The name's meaning of 'true desire' often manifests in individuals who are deeply in touch with their inner motivations and unafraid to pursue their genuine passions. They tend to be resilient and determined, capable of overcoming obstacles through sheer willpower and commitment to their goals. Dervals often exhibit a natural grace and poise that complements their inner strength, creating a compelling presence that commands respect without being overtly assertive. Their loyalty to loved ones is profound, and they often serve as emotional anchors within their families and social circles. Many Dervals possess a creative or artistic sensibility, channeling their emotional depth into various forms of expression. They balance traditional values with independent thinking, making them both reliable and innovative in their approach to life's challenges. This combination of emotional intelligence, determination, and authenticity makes Dervals particularly effective in roles requiring both compassion and leadership.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In modern usage, Derval occupies a unique position as a traditional Irish name that remains distinctive without being obscure. While it has never reached the popularity levels of names like Aoife or Saoirse, it maintains a consistent presence in Ireland, particularly among families with strong connections to Gaelic heritage. The name has seen a modest revival in recent decades as part of the broader resurgence of interest in traditional Irish names. Outside Ireland, Derval is occasionally chosen by families of Irish descent seeking a name that honors their ancestry while standing out from more common Irish choices. The simplified spelling 'Derval' has largely replaced the traditional 'Dearbháil' in English-speaking countries, making it more accessible while preserving its essential character. Contemporary parents are drawn to Derval for its beautiful sound, meaningful origin, and the positive qualities it represents—particularly the themes of authenticity and purpose that resonate in modern parenting values.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Derval represents the profound human quest for authenticity and the courage to follow one's true path. The name embodies the concept that our deepest desires are not mere whims but reflections of our essential nature and purpose. It symbolizes the integration of heart and will—the alignment of emotional truth with determined action. In a broader sense, Derval represents the Celtic philosophical ideal of living in harmony with one's destiny while maintaining connection to community and tradition. The name carries connotations of spiritual integrity and emotional courage, suggesting an individual who navigates life with both sensitivity and strength. It also symbolizes the enduring power of cultural heritage to inform personal identity, representing how ancestral wisdom can guide contemporary lives. The symbolic meaning extends to themes of legacy and continuity, positioning the individual as both a product of history and an author of their own story.