Irish Names for Boys

The use of O-prefixes could create the next wave of Irish-inflected names, offering an innovative way of honoring a relative with the old-fashioned moniker Brian. On Downton Abbey, the surname O'Brien was heard so often, it began to seem like a first.

Too close to baloney.

Pronounced like the word "even," this was a common name among the ancient royal families of Ireland, and has now become popular again.

A spelling variant of presidential surname Regan that briefly entered the Top 1000 for boys in the 1960s, but hasn't rejoined the list since. Shakespeare also used the name for a daughter of King Lear, inspired by an ancient king of the Britons in accounts of the medieval scribe Geoffrey of Monmouth.

This is the original Gaelic spelling of the Anglicized Colin -- more authentic, yes, but could make your American child's life unnecessarily complicated.

Patsy has been rarely heard for half a century, for either gender, and we're not expecting that to change in the near future..

This name of an ancient Irish saint -- a favorite disciple of Saint Patrick -- could be an option for parents in search of a more distinctive alternative to Brendan or Aidan.

Gallagher is, like so many of its genre, friendly, open, and optimistic. Some might associate it with the fraternal members of the band Oasis, Noel and Liam Gallagher.

The names may sound the same, but they have different origins and meanings. Take your pick.

This authentic form of the name of an Irish mythological hero with the power to make women fall instantly in love with him would work far better here as the Anglicized Dermot.

Irimias is a masculine name with Hungarian origins, relatively uncommon even within Hungary. It derives from the Biblical prophet Jeremiah, whose name in Hungarian is Jeremiás, with Irimias being a variant form. The name carries religious significance, as Jeremiah was a major prophet in the Old Testament known for his messages of judgment and restoration. Irimias remains rare internationally, maintaining a distinctive quality that reflects its specific cultural heritage. The name has a scholarly, somewhat mysterious sound to non-Hungarian speakers. While unfamiliar to many, its biblical connections provide depth and meaning, appealing to those seeking a name with religious significance and unique cultural roots.

Bold Irish surname, full of energy and cheer.

Authentic Gaelic name with pronunciation problems in the US. In Scotland Eachann has been anglicized as Hector, not because of its sound, but because the Trojan hero Hector had the reputation as a mighty horseman.

Irish name with an intriguing lilt.

Evin is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Irish, it derives from 'Eimhin,' meaning 'swift' or 'prompt,' while in Turkish, it means 'related to home' or 'one who shelters.' The Kurdish version carries the meaning 'evening' or 'sunset.' This multicultural background makes Evin an appealing choice for families with diverse heritage. The name has remained consistently uncommon yet recognized across various cultures. Its short, clear pronunciation makes it accessible while still distinctive. Evin offers a modern feel with ancient roots, balancing uniqueness with simplicity. The name has seen modest usage in the United States and greater recognition in Ireland, Turkey, and Kurdish regions.

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.

Dark horse Irish surname.

Donal is, yes, just Donald with the final d cut off, but that somehow gives it a jauntier, fresher feel. Donal Logue is a Canadian actor and Donal Skehan is an Irish cookbook author.

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.

Occasionally used as an alternative to Brandon or Brennan.