400+ Irish Last Names (With Meanings and Popularity)
- Mceuan
Description:
Mceuan is an unusual masculine name that appears to be a modern variant spelling of McEwan or MacEwan, traditional Scottish surnames. The prefix 'Mc' or 'Mac' traditionally means 'son of' in Gaelic, while 'Euan' (also spelled Ewen or Ewan) derives from the Gaelic 'Eóghan,' meaning 'born of the yew tree' or 'young warrior.' As a first name, Mceuan is extremely rare, possibly representing parents' desire to preserve a family surname or create a unique given name with Scottish heritage. The name carries a strong Celtic connection and projects qualities of strength and endurance associated with both its warrior meaning and the hardy yew tree. The unconventional spelling makes Mceuan a distinctively modern choice while maintaining traditional roots.
- Feeny
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"little raven"Description:
Feeny and its alternative spelling Feeney have several origins in Irish. They are anglicised forms of the surnames Ó Fiannaidhe (descendant of Fiannaidhe, meaning warrior), and Ó Fidhne (descendant of Fidhne, from the word for tree or wood). Feeny is also a place name in Northern Ireland, meaning "the woods. Although many Irish surnames are in style, like Keegan and Sullivan, this is one you've probably never met on a person before.
- Keating
Origin:
English or Irish surnameMeaning:
"kite"Description:
Keating is familiar as a surname but unexpected as a first. It boasts the always energetic -ing ending.
- Mckellar
Origin:
Irish and Scottish surnameMeaning:
"son of Ealair"Description:
A modern update to Hilary, which is related to Gaelic Ealair.
- Mccarey
Description:
Mccarey is a masculine name derived from Irish and Scottish Gaelic surnames, representing an Anglicized form of Mac Fhearadhaigh, meaning 'son of Fearadhach' (a personal name meaning 'manly' or 'masculine'). As a first name, it emerged through the modern trend of transforming family surnames into given names. Mccarey carries a distinctive Celtic heritage while fitting into contemporary naming patterns that favor surnames as first names. Though rare as a first name, it offers a connection to Irish and Scottish ancestry that might appeal to families with these cultural ties. The distinctive 'Mc' prefix immediately signals its Gaelic origins. While uncommon enough to be distinctive, the name remains recognizable and pronounceable, giving it accessibility despite its rarity.
- Hamill
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"scarred"Description:
Though we usually think a name's image in contemporary culture supersedes its ancient meaning, this is a case where the definition could undermine a child's self-esteem.
- Mccarthy
Origin:
Irish surnameMeaning:
"son of Cárthach"Description:
McCarthy is one of the most common Irish surnames, all fair game as first names for American babies, especially baby girls!
- Devaughn
Description:
Devaughn appears to be primarily a masculine rather than feminine name as indicated, representing a modern variant spelling of DeVon, Devon, or Devin. These names have multiple possible origins, including connections to the English county of Devon (from the tribal name 'Dumnonii' meaning 'deep valley dwellers') or as variants of the French surname DeVane. The prefix 'De-' suggests 'of' or 'from' in French. Devaughn emerged in usage records in the United States during the latter part of the 20th century but has remained relatively uncommon. The spelling with '-vaughn' might be influenced by the surname Vaughn or Vaughan, which comes from Welsh origins meaning 'small.' The name has a strong sound with emphasis typically on the second syllable (de-VAUGHN). Its distinctiveness represents the creative approach to spelling variations that became increasingly common in contemporary naming practices.
- O'fallon
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"son of the leader"Description:
Fallon has gone feminine, but this puts it back in the boys' camp.
- Beagan
Description:
Beagan is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin, derived from 'beag' meaning 'small' or 'little one.' Traditionally used as a surname in Ireland, it has transitioned to occasional first name usage, particularly among families celebrating their Celtic heritage. Beagan maintains an authentic Irish feel while being relatively straightforward to pronounce for English speakers. The name has never charted among popular names in the United States or United Kingdom, making it a distinctive choice that carries cultural significance without being commonplace. The sound is melodic yet masculine, with a pleasing rhythm that fits alongside other Irish names gaining international appreciation. Beagan offers the appeal of being recognizably Celtic without the pronunciation challenges of some traditional Irish names.
- Dahy
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"quick-footed"Description:
A long shot, but it could join the crop of dashing Irish surname names.
- Reilly
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"courageous"Description:
Riley is the spelling of this lively Irish name most often picked for girls, but this version is occasionally used.
- Bohannon
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"descendant of the victorious one"Description:
From the Irish surname Ó Buadhachanáin, which has at its core buadhach, "victorious". It has appeared in the US charts since 2014, probably in honor of the disco music pioneer Hamilton Bohannon, who was often known simply by his surname. This name therefore ticks several style boxes: an Irish surname, a music legend, and a cool "Bo" sound, with Bo as a possible nickname.
- Looney
Origin:
Irish and ManxMeaning:
"the son of Giolla Dhomhnaigh"Description:
The Gaelic name Giolla Dhomhnagh ("servant of Donagh") turned into the patronymic Mac Giolla Dhomhnagh, which was whispered down the alley until it became MacGillowney, and eventually Looney. Although it's similar in sound to popular Luna, this isn't an Irish surname that's likely to get much use.
- Mckinley
Origin:
ScottishMeaning:
"son of the fair hero"Description:
New Presidential name, if you're ready to move beyond Lincoln and Jefferson. At the turn of the last century, during the original McKinley's heyday, as a first name it almost reached the Top 100.
- Donnelly
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"dark, brave one"Description:
Donnelly is among the more appealing Irish surname names, less well used than Donovan. Related options include the place name Donegal and the mythological god name Donegan.
- Connery
Origin:
Irish surnameMeaning:
"warrior-lord"Description:
Irish surname names are hugely popular for girls in the US these days, with Riley and Kennedy ranking high on the official popularity lists. Connery is uncommon, but certainly attractive and usable.
- Dougan
Description:
Dougan is a masculine name with Scottish and Irish Gaelic origins. It derives from the Gaelic surname Ó Dubhagáin, meaning 'descendant of Dubhagán,' with 'dubh' meaning 'dark' or 'black,' possibly referring to dark hair or complexion. As a first name, Dougan remains quite rare, preserving a distinctive Celtic heritage while being recognizable to English speakers. The name carries strong connections to Scottish and Irish ancestry, making it appealing to families with Celtic roots seeking to honor their heritage. While uncommon enough to be distinctive, its familiar sound patterns make it accessible. Dougan offers a robust masculine quality without being overly common, balancing traditional Celtic origins with contemporary usability. The name has never ranked in popular name charts in the US or UK.
- Sweeney
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"the little hero"Description:
Friendly-sounding name with big "Sweeney Todd" downside.
- Flinn
Description:
Flinn as a feminine name represents an uncommon gender-crossover from its traditional masculine usage. Originally an Irish surname derived from 'Ó Floinn' meaning 'descendant of Flann,' where Flann meant 'ruddy' or 'red-haired.' As a first name for girls, Flinn offers a modern, distinctive choice with Celtic roots. The name carries a spirited, independent quality that appeals to parents seeking gender-neutral options. While still relatively rare for females, Flinn follows the trend of surname-inspired given names and short, punchy choices that have gained popularity in recent decades.
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