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Irish Gaelic Names for Boys

  1. Greagóir

    • Description:

      Greagóir is the Irish Gaelic form of Gregory, a name of Greek origin meaning "watchful" or "vigilant." The name derives from the Greek "gregorein" (to watch). The distinctive Irish spelling incorporates the fada (accent) over the 'o,' indicating a longer vowel sound in pronunciation. Traditionally used in Irish-speaking regions, Greagóir connects its bearers to Ireland's rich cultural heritage while maintaining ties to the widely recognized Gregory. The name carries historical significance through notable bearers like Pope Gregory the Great. While less common than the anglicized Gregory, Greagóir appeals to families with Irish roots seeking an authentic name that honors their heritage. Its traditional character and unique spelling offer distinction while preserving ancient linguistic traditions.
  2. Cléimeans

    • Description:

      Cléimeans is a masculine name that appears to be a unique variant of Clement, with Irish or Gaelic-inspired spelling. The original name Clement comes from Latin 'clemens' meaning 'merciful' or 'gentle.' The distinctive spelling with the accent mark and additional letters gives it a strong Celtic character. This very rare variation maintains the dignified quality of Clement while adding cultural distinctiveness. Clement has historical significance through various popes and saints, though this particular spelling remains exceedingly uncommon. The name combines classical roots with Celtic flair, potentially appealing to parents seeking a name with traditional meaning but unique presentation, particularly those with Irish or Celtic heritage.
  3. Uaithne

    • Description:

      Uaithne is a rare masculine name from Irish mythology, pronounced approximately as "OO-an-ya" or "WAHN-ya." In Irish legend, Uaithne was the name of the dagda's magical harp, which could produce music causing listeners to feel different emotions. The name has deep Celtic roots and maintains a strong connection to Irish cultural heritage and musical tradition. Extremely uncommon even in Ireland, Uaithne represents one of the more obscure choices from Irish mythology. Those who choose this name often have strong ties to Irish heritage or a particular interest in Celtic mythology. With its unusual pronunciation and spelling, Uaithne offers a distinctive choice that carries ancient mystical associations.

  4. Ánrai

    • Description:

      Ánrai is a masculine Irish name representing the Gaelic form of Henry. The name derives from Germanic elements meaning 'home ruler' or 'ruler of the household.' The acute accent over the 'A' indicates a long vowel sound in Irish pronunciation. While Henry has been extremely popular across English-speaking countries, the Irish form Ánrai remains relatively uncommon even within Ireland, where anglicized names have often taken precedence. The name connects to Irish linguistic heritage while honoring the long history of Henry as a royal and distinguished name throughout European history. Ánrai might present pronunciation challenges outside Irish-speaking communities, but offers families with Irish heritage a distinctive way to honor their cultural roots while giving their child a name with deep historical significance.
  5. Cóilean

    • Description:

      Cóilean is a traditional Irish masculine name pronounced approximately 'KOY-lan' or 'KWEE-lan.' It derives from the Irish word for 'puppy' or 'young dog,' symbolizing playfulness, loyalty, and youthful energy. The accent over the 'o' indicates a longer vowel sound in Irish pronunciation. This name carries deep Celtic roots and reflects Ireland's rich cultural heritage. While relatively uncommon even within Ireland, it has been preserved through generations as part of Irish linguistic tradition. Cóilean might be chosen by families with strong Irish connections seeking an authentic heritage name. Though potentially challenging for non-Irish speakers to pronounce correctly, its distinctiveness and cultural significance make it a meaningful choice with a direct connection to Gaelic language and traditions.
  6. Páraic

    • Description:

      Páraic is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of Patrick, a name derived from the Latin Patricius meaning "nobleman." This authentic Irish spelling reflects the pronunciation "PAW-rik" or "PAH-rig" and maintains strong cultural ties to Ireland. The name carries significant importance in Irish heritage due to Saint Patrick, the 5th-century missionary who became Ireland's patron saint. Though common in Ireland, particularly in Irish-speaking regions, Páraic is relatively rare internationally. The distinctive spelling with its accent mark (fada) over the first 'a' preserves the name's Gaelic pronunciation and cultural authenticity, making it a meaningful choice for families with Irish roots seeking a connection to their heritage.

  7. Ailbhe

    • Description:

      Ailbhe is a traditional Irish masculine name with ancient Celtic roots, though it can occasionally be used for females in modern times. Pronounced 'AL-va' or 'AL-bee,' it derives from the Old Irish word for 'white' or 'bright.' In Irish mythology, Ailbhe was the name of several notable figures, including a warrior in the Fenian cycle. The name fell out of common use for centuries but has experienced a modest revival in Ireland as part of a movement to reclaim traditional Gaelic names. Outside Ireland, Ailbhe remains quite rare and may present pronunciation challenges, but offers a distinctive choice with authentic Celtic heritage.
  8. Antaine

    • Description:

      Antaine is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin, functioning as the Irish equivalent of Anthony or Antoine. Derived from the Roman family name Antonius, which has uncertain etymology but may mean 'priceless' or 'highly praiseworthy.' In Ireland, Antaine has been used for centuries, though it remains less common than its Anglicized counterpart Anthony. The name carries cultural significance within Irish heritage while maintaining connections to the wider European naming traditions. Pronounced roughly as 'AN-tawn-yuh' in traditional Irish, the name sometimes faces pronunciation challenges outside of Ireland. Antaine offers parents an authentic Irish option that honors Gaelic language traditions while providing a distinctive alternative to more common Anthony variations.
  9. Gofraidh

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "peace of God"

    • Description:

      Gofraidh, pronounced guffry and sometimes Anglicized to Gotty, Gorry, or Geoffrey, was once a popular name, particularly among the O'Kane family. But in 1880 one Gofraidh MacCionnaith left a deathbed curse on any of his descendants who would revive the name.
  10. Éigid

    • Description:

      éigid is a masculine name with ancient Irish or Celtic origins. The unusual spelling with the acute accent (é) suggests Gaelic linguistic roots. In Old Irish, 'éigid' relates to crying out or proclaiming, possibly indicating someone who is a speaker, poet, or herald. This rare and distinctive name carries echoes of Ireland's rich literary and bardic traditions. The name remains extremely uncommon in contemporary usage, making it a truly unique choice. Parents drawn to éigid might appreciate its authentic Celtic heritage and distinctive sound. The name may present pronunciation challenges outside Gaelic-speaking regions, but offers the appeal of a deeply cultural and uncommon name choice.

  11. Éinri

    • Description:

      Éinri is the Irish Gaelic form of Henry, a masculine name with Germanic origins meaning "home ruler" or "ruler of the household." The original Germanic name Heimirich combines the elements "heim" (home) and "ric" (ruler, power). In Ireland, Éinri has been used for centuries, often appearing in historical records of Gaelic families. While less common than the anglicized Henry in modern Ireland, Éinri represents a connection to Irish linguistic heritage and culture. The name has maintained a modest presence in Ireland but hasn't achieved widespread popularity internationally compared to other Irish names like Liam or Aidan.
  12. Maitias

    • Description:

      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.
  13. Bairtliméad

    • Description:

      Bairtliméad is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of the name Bartholomew, which comes from the Aramaic name Bar-Talmai, meaning "son of Talmai" or "son of the furrows." This distinctively Irish version of the biblical name maintains strong connections to Irish cultural heritage and language. In the New Testament, Bartholomew was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. The Irish form of the name has been used since medieval times, though it's considerably less common today than anglicized versions. Pronunciation might be challenging for non-Irish speakers, adding to its distinctive character. Bairtliméad represents a deep connection to Irish linguistic traditions and offers an authentic alternative for those with Irish heritage seeking to honor their cultural roots through naming.
  14. Aingeal

    • Description:

      Aingeal is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin, though it can occasionally be used for girls as well. Pronounced roughly as 'AHN-gal' or 'AYN-gal,' it is the Irish form of Angel, literally meaning 'messenger' or 'divine messenger.' The name carries strong spiritual connotations in Celtic tradition while maintaining its connection to heavenly beings. Despite its angelic meaning, Aingeal has a strong, distinctive sound in Irish culture that makes it suitable as a boy's name. It remains relatively rare outside of Ireland and Irish diaspora communities. For parents with Irish heritage seeking a name with deep cultural roots and spiritual significance, Aingeal offers a meaningful choice with a distinctive Gaelic character.

  15. Ádamh

    • Description:

      Ádamh is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of Adam, a name with ancient Hebrew origins meaning 'man' or 'earth.' The distinctive spelling and accent mark preserve its Celtic linguistic heritage while connecting to one of history's most recognized names. In Irish pronunciation, it differs slightly from its English counterpart, typically pronounced roughly as 'AW-duv' or 'AY-duv.' While uncommon outside of Ireland and Scottish Gaelic-speaking regions, the name carries deep cultural significance in Celtic traditions. Ádamh represents a way for families to honor Irish heritage while using a biblically significant name. Though rare in international contexts, it has maintained consistent usage in Ireland, especially among families interested in preserving traditional Irish language and naming customs.

  16. Mcdermott

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "son of Diarmaid"

    • Description:

      McDermott is a common Irish surname that means, as all Mc or Mac names do, "son of" --then Dermott or Dermot, which is an Anglicization of the Irish Gaelic Diarmaid. The legendary Diarmaid was the lover of Grainne and the real King Diarmaid, in the twelfth century, first invited the English into Ireland. Actor Dermot Mulroney made his name famous in the U.S.
  17. Alastar

    • Description:

      Alastar is a masculine name of Scottish and Irish Gaelic origin, a variant of Alistair or Alastair, which ultimately derives from the Greek name Alexander, meaning 'defender of the people.' This spelling gives the name a more distinctly Celtic feel while maintaining its strong, dignified sound. In Gaelic tradition, the name is associated with strength and protection. Alastar remains relatively uncommon in mainstream usage, making it an attractive option for parents seeking a name with cultural depth that isn't overly popular. The name has a commanding presence with its strong consonants and clear pronunciation. Its Celtic roots give it an air of mystery and connection to ancient traditions while still functioning well in contemporary contexts.
  18. Dalaigh

    • Description:

      Dalaigh is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin, likely derived from the surname Ó Dálaigh, meaning 'descendant of Dálach.' The ancestral name relates to 'dál,' suggesting concepts of assembly, meeting, or possibly 'one who gathers.' Historically, the Ó Dálaigh family was renowned for producing poets and scholars in medieval Ireland, adding literary and intellectual associations to the name. As a first name, Dalaigh remains quite rare, preserving its distinctive Gaelic heritage. The pronunciation typically follows Irish patterns (roughly 'DAH-lee' or 'DAW-lee'), which may present challenges outside Ireland. The name appeals to parents with Irish heritage seeking an authentic connection to Gaelic culture or those drawn to uncommon names with substantive historical roots.
  19. Agaistin

    • Description:

      Agaistin appears to be a rare variant or alternative spelling of the name Augustine or Agustin. The traditional name Augustine derives from Latin 'augustus,' meaning 'great,' 'venerable,' or 'majestic.' This uncommon spelling variation might have emerged through regional pronunciation differences or as a deliberate modification to create a distinctive name. While extremely rare in documented usage, it follows the pattern of name variations that developed across different linguistic regions and cultural traditions. The uncommon spelling gives this classic name a unique quality while maintaining connections to the rich historical tradition of Augustine, which has been used since Roman times and was popularized by several important religious figures, including Saint Augustine of Hippo, an influential Christian theologian and philosopher.
  20. Aodhán

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "little fire"

    • Description:

      Authentic Irish Gaelic spelling of Aidan, sometimes pronounced with a very soft d/th sound in the middle.