Runyon is an Irish surname with considerable flair; some will connect it with Guys and Dolls writer Damon Runyon.

Somhairle is a rare masculine name with deep Gaelic roots, predominantly found in Scottish and Irish traditions. Pronounced roughly as 'SOR-la' or 'SORE-luh,' it represents the Gaelic form of the Norse name 'Sorley' or 'Somerled,' derived from 'sumarlidi' meaning 'summer traveler' or 'summer warrior.' The name carries historical significance, notably associated with Somhairle MacGillebride, a 12th-century Norse-Gaelic warlord who established the Lordship of the Isles in Scotland. Despite its rich heritage, Somhairle remains exceedingly uncommon outside Gaelic-speaking regions, largely due to its challenging pronunciation for non-Gaelic speakers. The name embodies Celtic cultural pride and connection to ancient traditions. For parents with Scottish or Irish heritage seeking an authentic cultural name with historical depth, Somhairle offers a powerful choice that honors ancestral roots while standing distinctively apart from more common Celtic names.

Relaxed, with an appealing touch of swagger.

Seanán is modern though less popular variation of Senán, an Irish name, notably borne by a 6th century monk and saint. Meaning "little old one", it has an air of wisdom and ruggedness about it. Seanán may also be considered a diminutive of Sean, the Irish variant of John.

Undiscovered Irish surname with a lot more bounce and masculine dash than Shannon.

Has a decidedly Roman Catholic feel, thanks to the bishop.

A few decades back, this name -- which hardly shows its Irish roots -- evoked a man in a gray flannel suit; now, though still upscale, it's more likely to be attached to a female.

Sorley is an anglicization of the Irish name Somhairle, itself derived from the Old Norse Sumarliði, a nickname for a summer traveler (perhaps meaning a viking raider!). It is sometimes used as a boy name in Britain, but very rarely in the US. The similarity to the word "sorely" may put some off, but we still think it makes a jaunty, unusual surname-style option.

The double 'e' gives this Celtic surname a genial sound. It derives from an old Irish name — Suibhne (SHEEV-ne) that was borne by several early saints and kings, including, unfortunately, one known as Mad Sweeney who spent his life living in trees and composing nature poetry. Another possible drawback is the association with Sweeney Todd, the bloodthirsty butcher of Sondheim stage-musical fame.

Not your typical jovial Irish surname; but has a dark, craggy appeal, and Tag as a nickname.

Tiernan is the slightly edgier and sharper cousin of Kiernan. This is one Irish surname that is attractive but distinctive; Tierney is another, related, option.

Tierney is a Celtic surname with a definite Irish twinkle, a name just waiting to be discovered. Though now sometimes used for girls (in the US, not Ireland), as in jazz singer Tierney Sutton, it still has plenty of masculine punch.

Tiomoid is a masculine name of Gaelic origin, representing an uncommon Irish variation of Timothy. The original Timothy derives from Greek meaning 'honoring God.' Tiomoid showcases the distinctive characteristics of Irish orthography, where traditional names are adapted with unique spelling patterns. The pronunciation might approximate 'CHUH-mid' or 'TEE-oh-mid' in Gaelic. Extremely rare outside Ireland and Irish diaspora communities, Tiomoid represents a deeply authentic connection to Irish cultural heritage. The name would be particularly appealing to those with strong Irish roots seeking a name that reflects their heritage while being quite distinctive. Its unusual appearance in writing contrasts with its more melodic traditional pronunciation.

Tully is a relaxed, rarely used Irish surname possibility which might provide an alternative to Tommy, Eli, or Troy. It has a long history of usage and a number of meanings, depending on which root you follow.

A much fresher Ty name than Tyler or Tyson.

A spelling that would definitely attract a lot of attention -- and a certain amount of confusion as well.

You lick. You like. We didn't think so.

This name of eighteen Irish saints of the past is relatively popular in Ireland, though little known outside it.

Caoimhe, pronounced (more properly) kwee-va or kee-va, is a pretty and distinctive Gaelic name but one that could well lead to no end of confusion outside the Irish community. Even in its native habitat, it is sometimes spelled Keeva.

No, the pronunciation--ro-SHEEN--isn't immediately obvious to the non-Gaelic viewer, but the sound of this shiny Irish version of Rose is pretty enough to make it worth considering. Very popular in its native Ireland, it's one of many Irish girl names finding a wider audience. Earlier generations Anglicized at as Rosaleen, but we stay stick to the original.