Irish Names

Peig is a traditional Irish feminine name, functioning as a diminutive form of Margaret. The name Margaret itself derives from Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl'. Peig gained notability in Ireland through the famous Irish language author Peig Sayers (1873-1958), whose autobiography became required reading in Irish schools. The name is pronounced somewhat like 'peg' but with a slightly softer sound in traditional Irish pronunciation. Despite its historical significance in Ireland, Peig remains quite uncommon, even within Ireland itself, having declined in usage since the mid-20th century. The name carries associations with traditional Irish heritage, resilience, and the preservation of Gaelic culture. Its short, distinctive sound contrasts with the trend toward longer, more elaborate names, giving it a simple, straightforward charm.

Peig

Gearoid is a masculine Irish name, the Gaelic form of Gerard. It derives from Germanic elements meaning 'spear' (ger) and 'brave' or 'hardy' (hard), thus signifying 'brave with a spear' or 'strong spear-carrier.' Pronounced roughly as 'GAR-ohd' in Irish, this name has deep roots in Irish history and culture. It was borne by notable figures including Gearóid Óg FitzGerald, the 9th Earl of Kildare. While common in Ireland, particularly among families honoring their Gaelic heritage, Gearoid remains rare internationally. The name reflects Ireland's linguistic traditions and continues to be chosen by parents seeking to connect their children with authentic Irish cultural roots.

Gearoid

Gioroid is a masculine Irish name, a variant of Garret or Gerald, which ultimately derives from Germanic elements meaning 'spear' and 'rule.' Pronounced roughly as 'GIR-ohd,' this uncommon name reflects the distinctive spelling patterns of traditional Irish nomenclature. Gioroid has remained primarily within Irish communities and hasn't gained widespread international usage, making it a distinctive choice that strongly connects to Irish heritage. The name carries connotations of strength and leadership from its Germanic roots while maintaining its distinctive Celtic character. Though potentially challenging for non-Irish speakers to pronounce at first glance, Gioroid offers a rich cultural connection for families with Irish ancestry who seek an authentic but uncommon name choice.

Gioroid

Irish surname derived from the name Gairbhín, a diminutive of garbh, "rough". It's barely been used as a first name, but could be a similar-yet-different alternative to names like Nolan and Sullivan.

Garvan

Gilibeirt is an unusual masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling or elaboration of Gilbert. The name Gilbert itself has Germanic origins, derived from elements meaning "bright pledge" or "shining hostage." This distinctive spelling with the additional 'i' characters gives Gilibeirt a unique visual appearance and potentially alters its pronunciation slightly. Extremely rare in usage, Gilibeirt likely represents either a highly individualized spelling choice or possibly reflects a regional variant from a specific cultural context. The name carries the same noble heritage as its more common counterpart Gilbert, which was introduced to England by the Normans and was borne by several medieval saints. The uncommon spelling might appeal to parents seeking a truly distinctive name with historical roots but a contemporary presentation.

Gilibeirt

Gibbon is a masculine name of English origin, derived from the Norman personal name Giboin, which combines Germanic elements meaning 'gift' and 'friend.' The name also shares its form with the primate species, creating an unexpected nature association. As a first name, Gibbon is exceedingly rare, making it an extremely distinctive choice. Historically, it has been more common as a surname, notably borne by Edward Gibbon, the celebrated 18th-century historian who wrote 'The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.' The name has an intellectual, scholarly association while maintaining a slightly unconventional sound. Parents choosing Gibbon for their son might appreciate its uniqueness and historical connections.

Gibbon

Transformation of the stolid Gilbert into an animated surname name. 

Gilby

For better or worse, this name is still firmly attached to the TV series Gilmore Girls. It's one of a number of Scottish and Irish surname names beginning with Gil, meaning "servant". In this case, it's "servant of Mary", making it a subtle male Marian name.

Gilmore

Gulliver is an obscure Gaelic surname known almost solely through its literary Travels until actor Gary Oldman used it for his son, instantly transforming it into a lively option. British actors Damian Lewis, of Homeland, and Helen McCrory also have a son named Gulliver.

Gulliver

Authentic Irish choice, easy to spell, tricky to pronounce. 

Paili

This Irish saint's name sounds like a lopped-off Lorna. 

Orna

This kind of authentic Irish surname makes a memorable first name for either sex, following in the path of all the Mac and Mc names recently popular. 

O'brien

Aralt is a masculine name of Germanic origin. It's a variant of the name Arnold, which is derived from the elements 'arn' meaning 'eagle' and 'wald' meaning 'ruler' or 'power.' This gives Aralt the meaning of 'eagle ruler' or 'strong as an eagle.' The name is relatively uncommon in modern usage, particularly outside Germanic-speaking regions. In medieval times, names with strong animal associations like the eagle were valued for the qualities they represented - strength, vision, and freedom. Aralt has remained a rare choice for parents, maintaining its distinctive character rather than achieving widespread popularity.

Aralt

In Cool Names, we cite this as an "Artist Name," for twentieth-century abstract painter Grace Hartigan, though for you it may just be an upbeat Irish surname. 

Hartigan

Noreena is a feminine name with several possible origins. It may be a variant of Noreen, the Irish diminutive form of Nora meaning "honor" or "light." The additional syllable gives Noreena a more flowing, melodic quality than its shorter counterparts. The name carries Celtic undertones while maintaining a distinctive modern sound. Though uncommon in mainstream usage, Noreena appeals to parents seeking a name with Irish heritage that remains relatively unique. Its soft sounds and feminine ending create an elegant impression, while its connection to concepts of honor and light imbue it with positive connotations. The spelling variant with double 'e' adds visual distinction.

Noreena

Eachtar is an uncommon masculine name with Gaelic origins, primarily found in Irish and Scottish traditions. The name derives from ancient Celtic languages, where it was associated with horsemen or cavalry warriors—'each' meaning 'horse' in Old Irish. In Celtic mythology, horses held significant symbolic value, representing freedom, nobility, and power. Eachtar would thus carry connotations of these qualities. The name has remained exceedingly rare in modern usage, preserving its distinctive character and ancient heritage. Even within Celtic regions, Eachtar is considered an uncommon choice, making it particularly unique in international contexts. For parents seeking a name with authentic Celtic roots and historical depth, Eachtar offers a rare option with strong symbolic associations.

Eachtar

Heremon is a rare masculine name with ancient Irish origins, derived from the legendary first Milesian king of Ireland, Éremón. In Irish mythology, Éremón was one of the sons of Míl Espáine who conquered Ireland from the Tuatha Dé Danann. The name carries strong associations with leadership, nobility, and Celtic heritage. Pronounced roughly as "HER-e-mon" or "AIR-e-mon," it has remained extremely uncommon in modern usage, making it a distinctive choice. The name conveys a sense of historical significance and mythological power. For parents with Irish heritage seeking a name with deep cultural roots and regal connotations, Heremon offers an unusual option with substantial historical weight and Celtic character.

Heremon

Hermon is a masculine name with ancient Hebrew origins, derived from the biblical Mount Hermon mentioned in the Old Testament. The name means 'sacred mountain' or 'sanctuary,' carrying spiritual significance in multiple religious traditions. Mount Hermon stands at the border of Lebanon and Syria and appears in biblical narratives as a place of significance. While not among common mainstream names, Hermon has historical usage particularly in religious communities. The name possesses a dignified, classical quality with its biblical associations and straightforward pronunciation. Similar to the more familiar Herman but with a distinctive spelling, Hermon appeals to parents seeking names with religious heritage and meaningful etymology. Its relative rareness gives it a distinguished, uncommon quality while maintaining recognizable sounds.

Hermon

While Niall -- pronounced as Neil or like the river Nile -- is conventionally a boys' name, it might theoretically work for girls.

Niall

Hobart

 are international stars, ranking near the top of popularity lists in Ireland and the US along with many other countries.

 in the US, standing at Number 1, and Riley is the

. Many new Irish baby names are replacing old standards like Kathleen and Patrick.

 include Kennedy, Quinn, Nora, and Maeve.

 include Finn, Ryan, all spellings of Aiden, Declan, and Rowan.

 we're hearing more of include Saoirse, as in actress Ronan; Niamh; and Una. 

 itself look rather different than they do in the US, though there are also several crossovers. Notably, not all of the top Irish baby names are actually Irish: at Number 1 currently are Jack and Sophie.

s in Ireland include the classic Hebrew James and Noah along with Irish names Cillian, Tadhg, and Liam. The 

 include only two Irish-language names, Éabha and Fiadh. Other popular girl names in Ireland are Grace, Emily, and Sophie.

 and Manx names. Along with Finn and Fiadh, other Irish Gaelic choices among the 

 include Eabha, Saoirse, and Aoife for girls; Darragh, Cillian, Oisin and Tadgh for boys.

Irish baby names enjoying international popularity

 include Liam, which ranks among the top names in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Sweden and Norway as well as Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

 in the Netherlands while variation Fynn is on Germany’s most popular list, and Nora is the second most popular girls’ name in Norway.

 go far beyond the Old School Kevins and Kathleens. If you define unique baby names as 

 on what's conventionally considered a name, then these nontraditional Irish surname names and place names may be ones you want to consider for your daughter or son.

 that work for boys and girls include Bellamy, Brady, and Callahan.

 in the US and most places outside the Emerald Isle -- though some are among the Top 100 names in Ireland -- include Aoife, Cian, Oisin, and Tadgh. Correct Irish spelling and pronunciation can be challenging for non-native speakers.

 both classic and modern, for girls and for boys, here, ordered according to their current popularity on Nameberry.

Irish names with meaning and popularity including top Irish baby names and unique Irish names for girls and boys. (Page 21)

690+ Irish Names (With Meanings and Popularity)