Dearbhla is a female Irish given name, a Gaelicized hybrid of the anglicised forms Derval and Dervla, which are themselves derived from Dearbháil and Deirbhile, respectively. The name's meaning is influenced by the Irish word dearbh meaning “true”, and thus Dearbhla is sometimes interpreted as “true desire”. However, its root lies in two distinct Old Irish names: Dearbháil, possibly meaning “daughter of Fál”—a poetic name for Ireland—from the der prefix meaning “daughter” and Fál; and Deirbhile, meaning “daughter of the filí” (the poet). Etymology Dearbhla represents a relatively modern Gaelic spelling that merges elements from both traditional names. The variant Dearbháil was common in medieval Ireland, while Deirbhile derives from the Old Irish Derbáil and Deirbhile. The anglicised forms Dervla and Derval emerged through English-influenced orthography, with Dearbhla reintroducing Gaelic conventions. Notable Bearers Dearbháil iníon Tadhg mac Cathal (died 925), an Irish noblewoman and aunt of King Cathal mac Conchobair of Connacht. Dearbhla Walsh (born 1970), Irish television director. Dearbhla Ní Fhrighil, Irish actress known for her role in the series An Bronntanas. Dearbhla Eves-Boyle, Irish musician. Cultural Significance The names Earliest: The seventh-century anchoress Saint Deirbhile (known alternately as Darbiled or Deirbhile) founded a monastery at Erris, making the name significant in Irish Christian tradition. Variants remain popular in Ireland among families seeking a connection to Gaelic heritage. Variants Dearbhla shares a root with Dearbháil, as well as the anglicised forms Dervila, Derval, and Dervla. In Old Irish, the name appears as Derbáil. The variant has also been used in the surname Mulderrig from earlier patronymics, showing spread through genealogy. Geographic Distribution Though primarily used in Ireland, the name has seen diminished usage over the 20th century and modern revival, appearing alongside its variants in Irish communities but remaining relatively rare in English-speaking countries. It is still occasionally used and preserved in Irish-language contexts and given to those honoring Connacht heritage. Meaning: “true”” {influenced}^ or “daughter of Fál/poet” Origin: Irish Gaelic, merging from two names, Dearbháil and Deirbhile Type: First name Regions: Modern Ireland, Irish diaspora