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690+ Irish Names (With Meanings and Popularity)

  1. Riobard

    • Description:

      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.
  2. Séamas

    • Description:

      Séamas is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of James, a name with Hebrew origins meaning 'supplanter' or 'one who follows.' The distinctive accent over the 'e' indicates a pronunciation shift, making it roughly sound like 'SHAY-mus.' This name has deep roots in Irish culture and history, remaining popular particularly in families maintaining strong connections to Irish heritage. Séamas honors traditional Irish naming patterns while connecting to the widely recognized name James. Though less common outside Ireland and Irish diaspora communities, the name has seen occasional international use. The authentic Gaelic spelling with its accent mark preserves the name's cultural integrity, distinguishing it from the anglicized version Seamus, which is more widely used in English-speaking countries.
  3. O'keeffe

    • Origin:

      Irish surname

    • Description:

      If you love the venerable Southwestern painter but feel Georgia's gotten too overheated, you might want to go all the way to this Irish surname in the fashionable O' family.
  4. Gioroid

    • Description:

      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.
  5. Hobard

    • Description:

      Hobard is a masculine name of Germanic origin, likely a variant of Hubert, which combines the elements "hug" (heart, mind, spirit) and "beraht" (bright, famous). It may also be related to the surname Hobart, which originated as a personal name. During medieval times, variations of this name were more common throughout Europe, though Hobard specifically has always been a rare variant. The name has an old-fashioned, distinguished quality that evokes images of historical figures and literary characters. Today, Hobard remains extremely uncommon, appealing primarily to parents interested in reviving rare vintage names or honoring family surnames. Its rarity ensures a distinctive identity for a modern bearer.

  6. Parthalan

    • Origin:

      Irish variation of Bartholomew, Aramaic

    • Meaning:

      "son of the furrow"

    • Description:

      Pathalan is a rare Irish name derived from the somewhat-less-rare Bartholomew. Nearly 30 baby boys were named Bartholomew in the US last year, but none were named Parthalan.
  7. Aguistin

    • Description:

      Aguistin is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Augustine or Agustin. It has Latin roots, derived from the name Augustus, meaning 'great' or 'venerable.' This alternative spelling may have evolved in certain Spanish or Portuguese-speaking regions. While less common than Augustine or Agustin, Aguistin carries the same rich historical connections to Saint Augustine, the influential theologian and philosopher. The name combines dignity with a touch of uniqueness through its spelling. It remains relatively rare in contemporary usage, which might appeal to parents seeking a traditional name with a slightly different flair. The name suggests wisdom, respect, and historical significance.
  8. O'callahan

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "son of the church lover"

    • Description:

      One of the most usable of the fashionable O'Names.
  9. 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.

  10. Coilin

    • Description:

      Coilin is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin. It is a diminutive form of 'Coil' or 'Coll,' meaning 'hazel tree,' which was significant in Celtic culture as a symbol of wisdom and inspiration. The suffix '-in' adds an endearing quality, suggesting 'little Coil.' While not widely used internationally, Coilin maintains popularity primarily within Ireland and among families with Irish heritage. The name carries a traditional Celtic charm while being distinctive and uncommon. Its pronunciation (KOY-leen or KOH-leen) sometimes causes it to be confused with the more common 'Colin,' though they have different etymological roots.
  11. Muiriol

    • Description:

      Muiriol is a feminine name of Celtic origin, specifically from Scotland and Ireland. It's a variant of Muireall or Muriel, derived from the Gaelic elements 'muir' meaning 'sea' and 'eall' meaning 'bright' or 'radiant,' thus conveying the beautiful imagery of 'bright as the sea' or 'shining sea.' This name has ancient roots but remains relatively uncommon in modern usage. Muiriol carries the lyrical quality characteristic of Celtic names while offering a distinctive alternative to the more common Muriel. Those named Muiriol might appreciate their name's connection to the natural world and Celtic heritage.
  12. Chrystal

    • Description:

      Chrystal is a feminine name representing a variant spelling of Crystal, which derives from the Greek word "krystallos" meaning "ice" or "clear, transparent stone." This alternative spelling with "Ch" instead of "C" gives the name a slightly more elaborate appearance while maintaining the same melodic pronunciation. Chrystal reached modest popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s but has since become less common. The name evokes qualities of clarity, purity, and natural beauty. Like its standard spelling counterpart, Chrystal suggests brilliance and a pristine quality, while the less conventional spelling adds a touch of distinctiveness to an otherwise familiar name.

  13. Monca

    • Description:

      Monca is a feminine name that appears to be either a variant spelling of Monica or possibly a unique creation. If related to Monica, it shares roots in North African or Greek origins meaning "advisor" or "solitary." The simplified spelling gives the name a modern, streamlined feel while maintaining the recognizable pronunciation. Monca's rarity makes it distinctive, appealing to parents seeking an uncommon variation of a familiar name. The name has a pleasant sound with its two syllables and straightforward pronunciation. While unconventional in spelling, Monca retains connections to the more traditional Monica, which gained popularity through Saint Monica and remained a steadily used name throughout Western countries.
  14. Muirgheal

    • Description:

      Muirgheal is a feminine Irish Gaelic name with ancient Celtic roots. It combines the elements 'muir' meaning 'sea' and 'geal' meaning 'bright' or 'white,' creating the beautiful meaning 'bright sea' or 'shining sea.' Pronounced approximately as 'moor-yahl' or 'meer-yal,' the name has a melodic quality despite its challenging spelling for non-Gaelic speakers. Traditionally found in Irish mythology and history, Muirgheal embodies the wild beauty of Ireland's coastlines. Though rare even in Ireland today, it represents a profound connection to Irish heritage and language. The name might appeal to parents seeking an authentic Gaelic name with poetic meaning and a link to Ireland's natural landscape and cultural traditions.