Irish Names

Finola, the readily accessible version of some of the more problematic Gaelic versions of the name, would make a welcome addition to the stockpot of Irish girls' names. 

Finola

Riobard is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of Robert, a Germanic name meaning 'bright fame' or 'brilliant renown.' This distinctive variation preserves ancient Irish phonetic patterns while adapting the Norman name that arrived in Ireland during medieval times. Though less commonly used than the anglicized Robert even within Ireland, Riobard represents the rich tradition of name adaptation in Irish culture. The name carries historical significance as it demonstrates how foreign names were incorporated into Irish language and culture while maintaining distinctive Gaelic elements. Pronunciation might pose challenges outside Ireland (roughly ree-oh-bard), but the name offers a strong connection to Irish heritage for those with ancestral ties. While rare in contemporary usage, Riobard appeals to families seeking an authentic Irish name with historical depth.

Riobard

Roibin is a masculine name of Irish origin, being a Gaelic variant of Robin. The name derives from the Germanic elements 'hrod' meaning 'fame' and 'berht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous'. In Irish contexts, Roibin (sometimes spelled Róibín) has been used as an Irish form of Robert or Robin. While not among the most common Irish names, it offers a distinctive Gaelic alternative to the more widely used Robin. The name carries connotations of brightness and distinction, reflecting its etymological roots. Roibin has remained relatively uncommon in international usage, preserving its unique cultural heritage and distinctive character.

Roibin

Riobart is a masculine name with Gaelic roots, primarily found in Irish and Scottish traditions. It is a variant of Robert, which derives from the Germanic elements 'hrod' meaning 'fame' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright'. This distinctive spelling reflects the Gaelic tendency to adapt names to their phonetic patterns. While not commonly used in mainstream society, Riobart maintains a presence in families seeking to honor Celtic heritage. The name carries connotations of brightness, glory, and distinguished reputation. Its rarity makes it an uncommon choice that stands out while still having historical legitimacy and traditional roots.

Riobart

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.

Roibeard

Finella and cousin Fenella, which are found most often in Scotland, would make pleasing imports.

Finella

Farrell is usually considered a boy's name, though the soft sound of this Irish surname makes it perfectly appropriate for a girl, reminiscent of Farrah.

Farrell

Roone is a lively, attractive and unusual redhead entry brought into the mix by the late TV sports and news executive Roone Arledge, who seemed to own it as a one-person name when he was alive.
 Roone can also be seen/used as a short form of Rooney.

Roone

Fania would make an interesting choice for a child of Irish Russian heritage, being a Celtic name with a Russian Tania-like feel. 

Fania

Evaleen is a delicate feminine name with Irish and English origins, a variation of Evelyn or a combination of Eva and the suffix '-leen.' It emerged in the early 20th century when elaborate variations of traditional names were fashionable. The name carries meanings associated with its root forms: 'life,' 'light,' or 'bird-like' from Eva/Eve, combined with the diminutive ending that adds a sense of endearment. While never reaching widespread popularity, Evaleen experienced modest use in English-speaking countries during the early 1900s before declining. It maintains an antique charm and lyrical quality that appeals to parents seeking a vintage name with Irish connections and a soft, melodious sound.

Evaleen

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

Runyon

Modern Irish form of the mythological name Étaín.

Éadaoin

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.

Somhairle

Relaxed, with an appealing touch of swagger. 

Scully

This name of a mythical beauty transformed into a scarlet fly by a jealous wife is popular in its native land; here, while pleasant to the ear, it's bewildering on paper. 

Étaoin

Eistir is an uncommon feminine name with possible Celtic or Norse origins, though its exact etymology remains somewhat obscure. It may be related to ancient words for spring or dawn, possibly connecting it to renewal and beginnings. The name has a mystical, ethereal quality that evokes images of northern landscapes and ancient traditions. Unlike more mainstream Celtic names, Eistir remains quite rare, giving it a distinctive character that appeals to parents seeking something truly unique. Its unusual sound pattern combines softness with strength, featuring the flowing 'eis' sound followed by a more definitive 'tir' ending. The name's rarity means a child named Eistir would likely be the only one in her class, offering individuality without sacrificing melodious pronunciation.

Eistir

That er sound -- as in Myrna, Myrtle, and Bernice -- sounds terminally dated. 

Erna

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.





Seanán

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

Shanahan

Irish town names are now fair game -- as are most other places with connections to Ireland -- but are much better suited to boys. 

Ennis

 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 26)

690+ Irish Names (With Meanings and Popularity)