Gaelic Names for Boys

Cael is the name of the angel of the zodiac sign of Cancer and also of a warrior of Irish mythology. Its ascendance to the Top 1000 over the past decade probably has to do with its similarity to Cale and Kale (and Kyle and Cayden etcetera).

Callen is a unisex Gaelic name growing in popularity here. Its newfound trendiness is possibly related to the Chris O'Donnell character on "NCIS: Los Angeles", known only as G. Callen. Jazz musician Cal Tjader's full name is Callen.

Though Eoin is a Gaelic form of John, its Anglicized pronunciation links it directly to Owen. Eoin is currently a Top 30 name in Ireland. Other variations: Ewan, Ewen, Evan and Eoghan (pronounced as Owen but also translated as Eugene).

Ruadhan (sometimes spelt with a fada: Ruadhán) is a fashionable name in its native Ireland. Borne one of the Twelve Irish Apostles, it originated as a diminutive of Ruadh, meaning "red-haired". It has sometimes been Anglicized as Rowan.

Mirren is a lively and attractive Scottish name, popular in its native country but best known outside Scotland as the surname of the English actor Dame Helen Mirren. It is thought to be a Scottish derivative of the name Marion, from Mary.

The 6th century Irish saint Mirin emigrated to Scotland and now is the patron saint of both the Glasgow suburb of Paisley and the game of football. Mirren is one modern spelling; the Cornish Merryn, best known as the name of the seacoast town St. Merryn, is also related. The name is usually used for girls.

Pronounced like Owen, this was the name of several early Irish kings and saints, as well as a celebrated Ulster hero. Often spelled with two 'n's in Scotland, it has been Anglicized as Ewan, Ewen, Euan, Owen, Hugh, or Eugene.

Munga is a masculine name with roots in several African cultures, particularly in Kenya among the Kikuyu people. The name generally relates to concepts of leadership, strength, or ancestral connection, though specific meanings can vary across different communities. In some contexts, it may be associated with prosperity or abundance. Munga remains relatively uncommon outside of specific African regions and diaspora communities. The name carries a strong cultural heritage and distinctive sound that sets it apart. Its brevity and distinctive pronunciation give it a memorable quality. For those of African heritage, the name can serve as a meaningful connection to cultural roots and ancestral traditions.

Eamonn is the Irish form of Edmund, derived from the Old English elements 'ead' meaning wealth or fortune and 'mund' meaning protection. Traditionally used in Ireland, Eamonn gained popularity throughout the 20th century and remains a strong cultural identifier. The name carries connotations of strength and prosperity, while maintaining its distinctive Irish heritage. Notable bearers include Irish broadcaster Eamonn Andrews and political figure Eamonn de Valera. While more common in Ireland and among Irish diaspora communities, the name has gained modest international recognition while staying true to its Gaelic roots.

Long popular in Ireland and England, Ciarán is the name of Ireland's first-born saint and twenty-five other saints. While this is the authentic Irish spelling, it is more familiar in the US in the Anglicized Kieran spelling.

What it really means: you're a "Casablanca" fan.

Once considered too sacred to give to children in Ireland, it is now among the most common names there, along with variants including Pauric and Padraic. Basketball great Patrick Ewing used it for his son.

Teadoir is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin. While uncommon even in Ireland, it may be related to the Irish name Tadgh (pronounced like 'tiger' without the 'r'), which means 'poet' or 'philosopher,' with a unique suffix. Alternatively, it could be a variant spelling of Teodor, the Eastern European form of Theodore, meaning 'gift of God.' The name's distinctive spelling and pronunciation reflect traditional Irish naming patterns that often preserve ancient linguistic elements. Teadoir would be considered a very rare name, appealing to parents seeking a strong connection to Irish heritage or those looking for a name with literary or philosophical associations. Its uniqueness ensures individuality while maintaining cultural significance.

Tearlach is a masculine name of Scottish Gaelic origin, traditionally pronounced 'CHAR-lach.' It's the Scottish Gaelic form of Charles, ultimately derived from Germanic roots meaning 'free man' or 'strong and manly.' Though uncommon outside of Scotland, Tearlach carries a strong cultural connection to Scottish heritage and history. The name has been borne by several significant figures in Scottish history, including Bonnie Prince Charlie, whose full name was Charles Edward Stuart but who was known in Gaelic as Tearlach. With its distinctive pronunciation and spelling, Tearlach offers a bold, Celtic alternative to the more common Charles while maintaining the same noble heritage.

Maitias is a masculine name with Gaelic roots, considered a variant of Matthias or Matías. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew name 'Mattityahu,' meaning 'gift of God.' While the standard Irish form is typically 'Maitiú,' Maitias represents a unique spelling variation that combines traditional Gaelic phonetics with the classical ending. This name is relatively rare globally, even in Ireland and other Celtic regions. Its uncommon status gives it distinction while still connecting to the widely recognized Matthew name family. The name carries spiritual connotations through its meaning while maintaining a melodic, gentle sound with its soft consonants and flowing vowels.

Saidhbhin is a rare masculine variation of the Irish name Sadhbh (pronounced 'sive'). It derives from Old Irish and is believed to mean 'sweet' or 'goodness.' The name carries deep Celtic roots and appears in Irish mythology, where Sadhbh was turned into a deer by a dark druid. While the feminine form Sadhbh has seen some revival in Ireland, the masculine variant Saidhbhin remains exceptionally uncommon. The additional suffix '-in' gives it a distinctive quality while maintaining its Gaelic heritage. Parents choosing this name often have strong connections to Irish culture and a desire for a truly unique name with authentic historical significance.

This Anglicized spelling adds a bit of a, well, sheen to the very popular Irish name Oisín.

Torcall is a masculine name with Scottish Gaelic roots, representing a variation of Torquil or Torcuil. Derived from the Norse name Þorkell (composed of 'Þórr,' the god of thunder, and 'ketill,' meaning cauldron or helmet), it carries connotations of strength and protection. Historically found in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, particularly in areas with strong Norse influence, Torcall remains relatively rare even within Scotland. The name connects to ancient Celtic-Norse heritage and offers a distinctive alternative to more common Thor-derived names. With its strong consonants and historical depth, Torcall provides a powerful yet uncommon option for parents seeking a name with authentic Scottish roots and mythological significance.

Eóghan is a traditional Irish masculine name, the original Gaelic form of Owen. Pronounced roughly as 'YO-an' or 'O-wan,' this name derives from the Old Irish 'Eógan,' meaning 'born of the yew tree' or 'youth.' The yew was sacred in Celtic tradition, symbolizing eternity and rebirth. Eóghan has deep historical roots in Ireland, borne by several kings and saints throughout Celtic history, including Eóghan Mór, a semi-legendary king of Munster. While the anglicized Owen has become more internationally recognized, Eóghan remains popular in Ireland and among families honoring their Irish heritage. The name has experienced a revival in recent decades as part of a broader trend embracing traditional Gaelic names with authentic spellings, despite pronunciation challenges it might present outside Ireland.