690+ Irish Names (With Meanings and Popularity)
- Partholon
Description:
Partholon is a masculine name from Irish mythology, referring to a legendary figure who led a settlement of Ireland after the Biblical Flood. According to medieval Irish texts like the Lebor Gabála Érenn (Book of Invasions), Partholon and his followers were among the first inhabitants of Ireland, arriving approximately 300 years after the deluge. The name carries strong connections to Irish cultural heritage and ancient Celtic traditions. Though extremely rare as a given name in modern times, Partholon might appeal to parents with deep interests in Irish mythology or those seeking a name with profound historical significance. The name has a commanding, distinctive sound with its three syllables and unusual combination of consonants, offering a truly unique option with authentic mythological roots.
- Tiomoid
Description:
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.
- 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.
- Obrien
Origin:
Irish surnameMeaning:
"descendant of Brian"Description:
The use of O-prefixes could create the next wave of Irish inflected names, offering an innovative way of honoring a relative with a behind the times moniker.
- 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.
- Neile
Description:
Neile is a feminine name with several possible origins. It may be a variant of Neil (Gaelic for 'champion' or 'cloud'), adapted with a feminine spelling. Alternatively, it could derive from Nelia or Cornelia. This uncommon name has a gentle, lyrical quality while remaining succinct and memorable. Its rarity makes it distinctive without being difficult to pronounce or spell. Neile has been occasionally used throughout the 20th century but remains relatively uncommon, giving it a timeless yet unique quality. The name carries a subtle elegance that works well in contemporary settings while having historical roots.
- 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.
- Parthalan
Origin:
Irish variation of Bartholomew, AramaicMeaning:
"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.
- Brigidine
Origin:
Irish variation of BrighidDescription:
Brigidine is a unique take on Bridget used by singer Sinead O'Connor. But assuming you're not an Irish rock star, you'd probably do better to stop at Brigid.
- Augusteen
Description:
Augusteen is an uncommon feminine name that derives from the Latin name Augustus, meaning 'great' or 'venerable.' It combines the classic root with a feminine ending, creating a distinctive variation of more common names like Augustine or Augusta. This name has historical connections to royalty and dignity, as Augustus was the title of the first Roman emperor. Augusteen has never been widely popular in mainstream usage, giving it a rare and vintage quality. It might appeal to parents looking for a name with classical roots but a unique presentation, offering the potential nicknames Gus, Auggie, or Teen.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.