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Irish Names for Boys

  1. O'keefe

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "son of the kind one"

    • Description:

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

    • Description:

      Oilibhear is a masculine Irish name representing the Gaelic form of Oliver. The name Oliver itself derives from Old French 'Olivier,' possibly connected to the Latin 'olivarius' meaning 'olive tree planter.' In Irish tradition, Oilibhear carries the same dignified qualities as Oliver while connecting more deeply to Gaelic heritage. The pronunciation is approximately 'IL-i-var,' though regional variations exist. This name exemplifies traditional Irish naming patterns where consonants are softened and additional vowels are incorporated. Though rare outside Ireland, Oilibhear offers a meaningful choice for families wishing to honor Irish ancestry. The name carries associations of peace (through the olive branch symbolism) while maintaining a strong, distinctive sound characteristic of Celtic names.

  3. Fagin

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "rustic"

    • Description:

      Forever Dickens's con artist in Oliver Twist.
  4. Cluny

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "from the meadow"

    • Description:

      Likable Irish surname name, but bound to be confused with Clooney.
  5. O'shea

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "hawklike, stately"

    • Description:

      One of the jauntiest o' the O' names, the birth name of actor/ rapper Ice Cube.
  6. Carlus

    • Description:

      Carlus is a masculine variant of the name Carlos, which itself derives from the Germanic name Karl, meaning 'free man' or 'manly.' This less common spelling variation maintains the strong, traditional essence of the original while offering a slightly distinctive flair. Though not widely used in English-speaking countries, Carlus has appeared occasionally throughout history, particularly in Latin-influenced contexts. The name carries a dignified quality while being slightly unconventional compared to more common variants like Charles or Carlos. Carlus might appeal to parents seeking a classic-sounding name with a unique twist.
  7. Derrig

    • Description:

      Derrig is a masculine name with Irish Gaelic origins, likely derived from the word "dearg" meaning "red." It may have originally been a nickname for someone with red hair or a ruddy complexion before evolving into a surname and later a given name. Derrig has a strong, compact sound that conveys masculinity and Celtic heritage. The name is quite rare as a first name, making it an uncommon choice that stands out. Its Irish roots make it appealing to families with Celtic connections seeking something distinctive yet culturally meaningful. While not appearing frequently in naming statistics, Derrig offers a bold alternative to more common Irish names, carrying connotations of vigor and distinctiveness through its connection to the vibrant red color.

  8. Corcoran

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "ruddy-faced"

    • Description:

      Corky was a sitcom moniker of the fifties, Corcoran a better fit for these times.
  9. Cork

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "swamp, marsh"

    • Description:

      Buoyant but lightweight.
  10. Barnaib

    • Description:

      Barnaib is the Scottish Gaelic form of Barnabas, a name with ancient Biblical roots. In the New Testament, Barnabas was an early Christian disciple whose name is interpreted as 'son of encouragement' or 'son of consolation.' The Gaelic version maintains this meaningful heritage while connecting specifically to Scottish linguistic traditions. Pronounced roughly as 'BAR-neeb,' the name has a distinctive sound uncommon outside Scotland and Gaelic-speaking communities. While rare in contemporary usage, Barnaib represents a cultural alternative for families with Scottish heritage seeking authentic Gaelic names. The combination of Biblical significance and Celtic linguistic character gives Barnaib unique cross-cultural appeal.
  11. Boynton

    • Origin:

      Irish and English

    • Meaning:

      "town near the Boyne"

    • Description:

      That sound again.
  12. Clooney

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "from the meadow"

    • Description:

      Variation of Cluny best only if you're a major George fan. And even then, better go with George, Georgia, or Georgiana.
  13. O'donovan

    • Origin:

      Irish, 'son of the dark one"

    • Description:

      Donovan is on the rise, so why not this sequel?
  14. Culley

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "the meadow"

    • Description:

      Cheerful and distinctive.
  15. Riocard

    • Description:

      Riocard is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of the name Richard. Pronounced roughly as 'REE-uh-kard,' it derives from Germanic elements meaning 'powerful' and 'brave' or 'hardy.' This name reflects Ireland's rich naming traditions, preserving Celtic language forms even for names with Germanic origins. While uncommon in its traditional spelling outside of Irish-speaking communities, Riocard represents a connection to Irish heritage and language. The name has historical significance in medieval Ireland, though it's relatively rare in contemporary usage compared to the anglicized Richard. Parents choosing this spelling often have strong connections to Irish culture or a desire to honor their Celtic ancestry.
  16. Donall

    • Description:

      Donall is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin, representing a variant spelling of Dónall or Domhnall, which ultimately derives from the elements 'dubno' meaning 'world' and 'val' meaning 'rule' or 'mighty.' The traditional meaning is often interpreted as 'world ruler' or 'world mighty.' This name has ancient Celtic roots and was borne by several Irish kings and notable historical figures. While less common than the anglicized Donald, Donall maintains stronger connections to its Gaelic heritage. The name has moderate usage in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora, though it remains relatively uncommon elsewhere. Donall projects strength, leadership, and a connection to Irish cultural traditions, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with authentic Celtic roots.
  17. Parthalán

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "plowman"

    • Description:

      Familiar in Ireland, strange here.
  18. Aonghus

    • Description:

      Aonghus is a masculine name of Scottish and Irish Gaelic origin, equivalent to the Anglicized form Angus. The name combines the Celtic elements 'oino' meaning 'one' or 'unique' and 'gusa' meaning 'choice' or 'strength.' In Irish mythology, Aonghus (or Aengus) was the god of love, youth, and poetic inspiration. The traditional Gaelic spelling gives this ancient name an authentic character while preserving its strong cultural heritage. While the spelling Aonghus might present pronunciation challenges in non-Gaelic speaking regions (it's roughly pronounced 'AY-nus' or 'OY-nus'), it remains popular among families with Scottish or Irish connections seeking to honor their Celtic roots.

  19. Dahy

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "quick-footed"

    • Description:

      A long shot, but it could join the crop of dashing Irish surname names.
  20. Drennon

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "son of Draighnean"

    • Description:

      Brennan alternative.