Gaelic Names that Start With M
- Mirren
Origin:
ScottishMeaning:
"drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"Description:
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.
- Mirin
Origin:
Irish and Scottish, meaning unknownDescription:
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
Origin:
ScottishMeaning:
"drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"Description:
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.
- Mirin
Origin:
Irish and Scottish, meaning unknownDescription:
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.
- Meadhbh
Description:
Meadhbh is a feminine Irish name pronounced approximately as "Mayv" or "Maeve." It's the original Gaelic spelling of the more commonly seen Maeve. The name derives from the legendary warrior queen Meadhbh of Connacht in Irish mythology, who was known for her strength, independence, and determination. The name means "she who intoxicates" or "she who brings joy," suggesting someone captivating or exhilarating. While the traditional spelling Meadhbh is primarily used in Ireland, particularly in Irish-speaking regions, the anglicized Maeve has gained international popularity. The name carries associations of feminine power, leadership, and ancient Celtic heritage. Parents choosing this traditional spelling often have strong connections to Irish culture and language, valuing authenticity over ease of pronunciation for non-Irish speakers.
- Maebh
Description:
Maebh is an ancient feminine Irish name pronounced similar to 'Maeve.' It derives from the legendary queen Medb of Connacht in Irish mythology, whose name means 'she who intoxicates' or 'the cause of great joy.' This traditional spelling preserves the authentic Gaelic heritage of the name, whereas Maeve is the more anglicized version. Maebh carries strong connotations of strength, independence, and feminine power, as Queen Medb was known for her strong will and warrior spirit. While rare outside Ireland, the name has maintained a steady presence in Irish naming traditions. Its brevity and rich cultural significance appeal to parents seeking an authentic Celtic name with historical depth and powerful feminine associations.
- 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.
- Madhbh
Description:
Madhbh is an uncommon feminine name of Irish Gaelic origin, an alternative spelling of the more familiar Maeve (Méabh). The traditional name carries rich Celtic heritage, associated with the legendary Queen Maeve of Connacht, a powerful figure in Irish mythology known for her strength and determination. The name means 'she who intoxicates' or 'she who brings joy.' This particular spelling, Madhbh, represents a more traditional Gaelic orthography that preserves the historical elements of the name. While the pronunciation remains similar to Maeve ('mayv'), the spelling can be challenging for those unfamiliar with Gaelic conventions. For parents seeking an authentic connection to Irish heritage, Madhbh offers a deeply traditional option with significant cultural and historical resonance.
- Munga
Description:
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.
- Màmus
Description:
Màmus is a rare masculine name with obscure origins, possibly derived from regional variations of ancient Gaelic or Latin roots. The unusual spelling with the accent mark (à) suggests Celtic or Romance language influences. It may be related to the Latin word "mamma" (breast) or could be a rare variant of names like Manus (an Irish name meaning "great") or Seamus. Màmus has extremely limited historical usage and remains virtually unknown in contemporary naming practices. Its rarity means there is little documented history about its meaning or cultural significance. The name might appeal to parents seeking a highly distinctive and uncommon option with an ancient, mysterious quality. Its pronunciation might vary regionally, but typically would emphasize the accented syllable.
- Meibh
Description:
Meibh is a rare variant spelling of the Irish name Maeve (or Méabh in modern Irish). This ancient name has deep roots in Irish mythology, where Queen Maeve of Connacht was a powerful warrior queen. The name derives from the Irish word meaning "she who intoxicates" or "the cause of great joy." While the traditional spellings Maeve and Méabh are more common, Meibh represents an alternative phonetic rendering of the same pronunciation. The name carries connotations of strength, independence, and feminine power. Despite its rare spelling, it connects its bearer to a rich cultural heritage celebrating powerful female figures in Celtic tradition.
- Medbh
Description:
Medbh is an ancient Irish feminine name, an alternative spelling of the more commonly seen Maeve. Derived from the Old Irish name Medb, meaning 'intoxicating' or 'she who intoxicates,' it carries significant cultural importance in Irish mythology. Queen Medb of Connacht was a powerful figure in the Ulster Cycle, known for her strength, independence, and warrior spirit. The spelling Medbh, though less common than Maeve internationally, remains authentic to Irish linguistic traditions, with the 'bh' producing a 'v' sound. This spelling has seen modest revival amid growing interest in authentic Celtic names. For parents seeking a name with deep historical roots and feminine strength, Medbh offers distinctive Irish heritage while honoring one of mythology's most formidable queens.