Irish Gaelic Names that Start With P
- Pádraig
Origin:
Gaelic variation of PatrickDescription:
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.
- Pádraigín
Description:
Pádraigín is a feminine Irish name that functions as a diminutive form of Pádraig (the Irish form of Patrick). The suffix '-ín' in Irish adds a sense of endearment or smallness. This distinctively Gaelic name honors Ireland's patron saint while adapting it for feminine use. Pronounced approximately as 'paw-dra-geen,' it presents pronunciation challenges outside Irish-speaking communities but carries strong cultural significance for those with Irish heritage. Quite rare even within Ireland, Pádraigín represents a deep connection to Irish language and traditions. The name's meaning connects to the Latin 'patricius' meaning 'noble,' reflecting both religious devotion and cultural pride in its Irish roots.
- Proinséas
Description:
Proinséas is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of Frances/Francis. This feminine name derives ultimately from Latin 'Franciscus,' meaning 'Frenchman' or 'free one.' The distinctive spelling reflects Irish language phonetics, with pronunciation approximately 'PRIN-shass.' Though rare outside Ireland, even within Ireland it's less common than anglicized alternatives. Proinséas connects a child to Irish heritage and Celtic linguistic traditions. The name carries rich historical associations with notable figures like Saint Francis of Assisi, known for compassion and simplicity. Parents choosing Proinséas likely value cultural heritage and may appreciate its distinctive character while maintaining connections to the more familiar Frances/Francis tradition.
- 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.
- Pilip
Description:
Pilip is a masculine name representing a variation of Philip, which derives from the Greek name Philippos, meaning 'lover of horses' from 'philos' (loving) and 'hippos' (horse). This particular spelling variant may reflect Eastern European linguistic influences, particularly from Slavic languages where 'Pilip' appears as a traditional form. In Ukrainian and some other Slavic traditions, this spelling has historical usage. The name maintains the strong heritage and meaning of Philip while offering a distinctive spelling that connects to specific cultural traditions. Pilip remains uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it a unique option that still carries the familiar sound and rich history of the more common Philip.