690+ Irish Names (With Meanings and Popularity)

Earnan is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin, derived from the elements 'earn' (meaning iron) and a diminutive suffix, essentially meaning 'little iron one' or 'iron warrior.' This traditional Irish name speaks to strength and resilience, qualities valued in Celtic heritage. Though relatively uncommon even in Ireland and Scottish Gaelic regions, Earnan has authentic historical roots as a saint's name - Saint Earnan was an Irish missionary in the 7th century. The name has a distinctly Celtic feel with its characteristic two-syllable rhythm and 'an' ending common in Irish names. Despite its authentic heritage, Earnan remains a rare choice internationally, offering parents seeking Celtic names an option with genuine historical connections but little mainstream usage.

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.

Auliffe is a masculine name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic 'Amhalghaidh' or 'Amhlaoibh', which are variants of the Old Norse name 'Olaf'. The name means 'ancestral heritage' or 'ancestor's descendant'. While relatively uncommon, Auliffe maintains its connection to Irish heritage and history. It is sometimes found as a surname or seen in the variant MacAuliffe (son of Auliffe). The name carries a dignified quality and reflects Ireland's complex history of Norse influence. Auliffe offers parents seeking a distinctive Irish name an option with historical depth and unique character.

Same problem as Eóin -- squared.

Bríd is a feminine Irish name that represents the original Gaelic form of Bridget. This ancient name honors Brigid, one of Ireland's most beloved patron saints, as well as the pre-Christian Celtic goddess Brigid associated with poetry, healing, and smithcraft. The name features the traditional Irish fada accent mark over the 'i', which slightly changes its pronunciation to 'breed' rather than 'brid.' Though less commonly used outside Ireland in its authentic spelling, Bríd remains a cherished name in Irish-speaking communities and among families honoring their Celtic heritage. The name carries significant cultural weight, representing Ireland's spiritual heritage while offering a concise, distinctive alternative to the more internationally recognized Bridget.

Magee has a broad and bouncy appeal for the sons of anyone from Adam to Zachary.

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.

A lively boys' name that works well for girls.

An Anglicized derivative of the Gaelic name Beatha, meaning "life," best known as the surname of Irish playwright Brendan Behan.

This friendlier Celtic version of Edmund has an upbeat feel and a good chance of competing with Aidan and Damon sometime soon.

Merial is a feminine name with complex historical roots. It may derive from the medieval name Muriel (meaning 'bright sea' from Celtic elements 'muir' meaning sea and 'el' meaning bright) with an altered spelling. Alternatively, it could connect to the Latin 'mereo' meaning 'to earn' or 'deserve.'

Like the other O' names, this is a wonderful way to pass down a family name.

Ungus is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Angus, a name with Scottish and Irish Gaelic origins. Traditional Angus derives from the Celtic element "oen" meaning "one" and "gus" meaning "choice," often interpreted as "one choice" or "unique strength." This unusual spelling variation maintains the strong, distinctive quality of the original while creating a more unique identity. Extremely rare in usage, Ungus offers parents a way to reference Celtic heritage while standing apart from more common spellings. The name carries associations with strength and uniqueness found in its etymology. Despite its rarity, the name has a straightforward pronunciation similar to Angus, making it accessible despite its uncommon appearance.

Kesey is a possible literary hero name honoring Merry Prankster Ken Kesey, whose characters flew over the cuckoo's nest. Kesey rhymes with easy.

Despite pronunciation, looks a bit like an airline or -- worse still -- a hair dryer name.

Actor Pierce made both his first and last name appealing.

Shevonne is proof that a name can be pretty and tacky at the same time.

A name scattered throughout Irish mythology with an intriguing sound, Carbry is one of the rare Irish names for boys virtually unknown in the US. Bry is the obvious, but lovely nickname option.

Somewhat gruff name that might be better feminized as Duffy.

Most parents interested in this name would be honoring either an ancestor or painter Georgia O'Keeffe.