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690+ Irish Names (With Meanings and Popularity)

  1. Evin

    • Description:

      Evin is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Irish, it derives from 'Eimhin,' meaning 'swift' or 'prompt,' while in Turkish, it means 'related to home' or 'one who shelters.' The Kurdish version carries the meaning 'evening' or 'sunset.' This multicultural background makes Evin an appealing choice for families with diverse heritage. The name has remained consistently uncommon yet recognized across various cultures. Its short, clear pronunciation makes it accessible while still distinctive. Evin offers a modern feel with ancient roots, balancing uniqueness with simplicity. The name has seen modest usage in the United States and greater recognition in Ireland, Turkey, and Kurdish regions.
  2. Donnelly

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "dark, brave one"

    • Description:

      Donnelly is among the more appealing Irish surname names, less well used than Donovan. Related options include the place name Donegal and the mythological god name Donegan.
  3. Breácan

    • Description:

      Breácan is a masculine Irish name pronounced approximately as "BRAY-uh-kun." It derives from the Irish word "breac," meaning "speckled" or "freckled." Historically, it may have been used as a descriptive nickname for someone with freckles or mottled skin. The name has deep Celtic roots and carries connections to Irish folklore and tradition. Breácan is also associated with the breacan, the checkered or tartan mantle worn in ancient Ireland, which later evolved into what we know as plaid. While never among the most common Irish names, Breácan represents authentic Gaelic heritage and has seen occasional use among families wishing to honor their Irish ancestry. The accent over the 'á' indicates a long vowel sound in Irish pronunciation.

  4. Artur

    • Origin:

      Portuguese, Polish, Estonian, Armenian variation of Arthur, Celtic

    • Meaning:

      "bear"

    • Description:

      The Arthur variation preferred in Portugal and across much of Eastern Europe. It’s a truly international name, and one that would be easy to wear in the US as well.
  5. Eimile

    • Description:

      Eimile is a feminine name with Gaelic roots, primarily considered an alternative spelling of Emily or Émilie. This distinctive variation maintains the melodic quality of its more common counterparts while offering a uniquely Celtic flair. In Irish and Scottish Gaelic contexts, the name connects to words meaning 'rival' or 'eager,' though its contemporary usage often simply reflects appreciation for Gaelic heritage. While relatively uncommon even in Ireland and Scotland, Eimile appeals to parents seeking a name with Celtic roots that maintains some familiarity. The pronunciation typically follows as AY-mi-lee or EYE-mi-lee, though variations exist. The name's unusual spelling provides a conversation starter while still carrying the classic feminine elegance associated with its more widespread variants.
  6. Dunbar

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "castle headland"

    • Description:

      Clear and strong, if a little heavy.
  7. Cessair

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "sorrow, affliction"

    • Description:

      Lovely and rare (even in Ireland) mythological widow whose tears rained on Ireland.
  8. Grania

    • Origin:

      Variation of Grainne, Irish

    • Meaning:

      "the loved one or grain of corn"

    • Description:

      In addition to being the appellation of an ancient grain goddess, this name was also borne by two mythic Irish figures, one of whom was betrothed to legendary chieftain Finn MacCool, the other the brave sixteenth century pirate Grainne Ni Mhaille— known in English as Grace O'Malley-- whose name passed into poetry as a symbol of Ireland.
  9. Connery

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "warrior-lord"

    • Description:

      This appealing name of a mythical king of Tara whose reign brough prosperity to his kingdom is strongly associated with actor Sean. The Irish form is Conaire.
  10. Bard

    • Origin:

      Irish variation of Baird, Scottish

    • Meaning:

      "minstrel, poet"

    • Description:

      Great Irish middle name choice for Shakespeare lovers.
  11. Breda

    • Description:

      Breda is a feminine name with multiple cultural roots. Primarily of Irish origin, it's a shortened form of Bridget, derived from the Celtic goddess Brigid, meaning "exalted one" or "strength." In Slavic countries, particularly Slovenia, Breda appears as an independent name. It's also used in the Netherlands as a given name. Breda carries a gentle but strong quality, combining brevity with substance. Unlike more common variants like Bridget or Bridie, Breda remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality. The name has enjoyed modest usage throughout the 20th century but never reached mainstream popularity, making it an understated choice that balances traditional roots with uniqueness.

  12. Ultan

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "man from Ulster"

    • Description:

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

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "ruddy-faced"

    • Description:

      Corky was a sitcom moniker of the fifties, Corcoran a better fit for these times.
  14. Carlow

    • Origin:

      Irish place-name

    • Meaning:

      "four-part lake"

    • Description:

      Gives Carlo a place-name/surname spin.
  15. Roibeard

    • Description:

      Roibeard is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of the name Robert, infusing the familiar classic with Celtic heritage. Pronounced roughly as 'ROH-bard' or 'HROH-byart,' this masculine name derives from Germanic elements meaning 'bright fame' or 'shining with glory.' While rare outside Ireland, Roibeard represents a deep connection to Irish linguistic traditions and cultural identity. The name experienced its greatest popularity in medieval Ireland but has seen limited use in modern times, making it an uncommon choice that stands out. Parents might choose Roibeard to honor Irish ancestry or to select a distinctive name with historical roots and a strong cultural connection.
  16. Becan

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "little man"

    • Description:

      This more user-friendly Anglicized form of Beacan, could profit from its kinship with the popular Beckett--with which it could share the nickname Beck. Becan is an Irish saint's name, attached to the founder of a sixth century monastery.
  17. Aidan

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "little and fiery"

    • Description:

      Aidan is an ancient Irish saint's name with a fire meaning that's mega popular for boys, most often spelled as Aiden. The name is occasionally used for girls, sometimes as Aidyn or Ayden, as well. Aidan was the name of a famous seventh-century Irish saint, and is related to the Irish word for fire.
  18. Niall

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "cloud"

    • Description:

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

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "salmon"

    • Description:

      This now-popular name has spawned several different spellings. Many parents choose it solely for its style and sound, but we like the history behind this version: the bradan feasa is the "Salmon of Knowledge" in the legend of Finn McCool.
  20. Dervla

    • Origin:

      Anglicized form of Irish Dearbhla or Deirbhile

    • Meaning:

      "daughter of the poet"

    • Description:

      Tongue twister of a name common in Ireland in both its Gaelic and its Anglicized forms. American or British parents looking for an Irish name that's still largely unknown in the outside world might consider this.