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400+ Irish Last Names (With Meanings and Popularity)

  1. Patten

    • Description:

      Patten originated as an English surname derived from the Middle English word "paten," referring to a type of wooden shoe or clog. As a first name, Patten exemplifies the continuing trend of transforming surnames into given names. The name carries a dignified, patrician quality with its crisp consonants and straightforward pronunciation. Though uncommon as a first name, it offers a distinctive alternative to more popular options like Patrick or Peter while maintaining a traditional feel. Patten may also appeal to families with this surname in their lineage who wish to preserve the connection. The name projects reliability and steadfastness while being distinctive enough to stand out without seeming unusual.

  2. 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.
  3. O'riley

    • Description:

      O'Riley is a masculine surname-turned-first name of Irish origin. It's derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Raghailligh, meaning "descendant of Raghallach," a personal name thought to mean "valiant" or "rash in battle." The O' prefix traditionally denotes "grandson of" or "descendant of" in Irish naming traditions. As a first name, O'Riley represents the ongoing trend of using family surnames as given names, particularly in Irish-American communities. While not among the most common given names, it offers a distinctive option that honors Irish heritage while maintaining a contemporary feel.

  4. O'brien

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "descendant of Brian"

    • Description:

      This kind of authentic Irish surname makes a memorable first name for either sex, following in the path of all the Mac and Mc names recently popular.
  5. Carbry

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "charioteer"

    • Description:

      Male name from Irish mythology makes stylish-sounding choice for girls.
  6. Doherty

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "not loving"

    • Description:

      Surname that could have pronunciation problems -- it's Dorrity -- as well as having an off-putting meaning.
  7. O'fallon

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "son of the leader"

    • Description:

      Fallon has gone feminine, but this puts it back in the boys' camp.
  8. Farrelly

    • Description:

      Farrelly is a feminine name with Irish origins, derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Fearghail, meaning 'man of valor' or 'courageous one.' As a first name, Farrelly is quite rare and unconventional for girls, representing a modern trend of adopting surnames as given names. Its unique sound combines strength and femininity, making it distinctive in any setting. While not commonly found in popularity charts, Farrelly offers parents seeking an uncommon name with Celtic roots an interesting option. The name carries connotations of bravery and determination, qualities that many parents might wish to inspire in their daughters.
  9. Macalay

    • Description:

      Macalay is a masculine name with Scottish Gaelic origins, derived from 'Mac Amhalghaidh' meaning 'son of Amhalghaidh' (an ancient personal name). Sometimes spelled Macaulay or Macauley, it began as a surname before transitioning to occasional first-name use. The name gained some recognition through actor Macaulay Culkin, star of the 'Home Alone' films in the 1990s. While never extremely common, Macalay appeals to parents seeking names with Celtic heritage and distinctive character. The name carries a sophisticated sound while offering friendly nicknames like Mac or Cay. Its Scottish roots connect it to a rich cultural tradition, while its relatively uncommon status makes it stand out. Macalay blends traditional origins with contemporary appeal for parents seeking something both substantial and unique.

  10. Corrigan

    • Origin:

      Irish surname

    • Meaning:

      "spear"

    • Description:

      The C spelling of Corrigan relates more directly to the Irish surname, while the K spelling, Korrigan, relates to the sprites and fairies of Breton folklore.
  11. Flinn

    • Description:

      Flinn is a masculine name of Irish and Gaelic origin, derived from 'Ó Floinn' meaning 'descendant of Flann.' The root 'flann' refers to 'ruddy' or 'red-haired.' While less common than its variant Flynn, Flinn maintains the same crisp, concise sound with a slightly different spelling. This name experienced modest popularity increases in the early 2000s, particularly in Ireland, Scotland, and among diaspora communities. Flinn offers a distinctive alternative to more common Irish names while maintaining authentic Gaelic roots. The single-syllable structure gives it a punchy, modern feel despite its ancient origins. Parents might choose Flinn for its combination of traditional heritage and contemporary sound, as well as its association with vitality through the 'ruddy' meaning.
  12. Mckee

    • Description:

      Mckee is a masculine name that originated as a Scottish and Irish surname, derived from 'Mac Aodha,' meaning 'son of Aodh' (an ancient Celtic name meaning 'fire'). As a first name, Mckee represents the growing trend of using family surnames as given names, particularly in America. Though relatively uncommon as a first name, it offers a strong cultural connection to Celtic heritage while fitting into the contemporary preference for surname-style first names. Mckee has a concise, strong sound that balances traditional roots with modern appeal. Parents might choose it to honor family lineage or for its distinctive quality while still maintaining a familiar surname structure.
  13. Duggan

    • Description:

      Duggan is a masculine name of Irish and Gaelic origin, derived from the surname 'Ó Dubhagáin,' meaning 'descendant of Dubhagán.' The name Dubhagán comes from 'dubh,' meaning 'dark' or 'black,' likely referring to dark features or hair. Traditionally used as a family name throughout Ireland, particularly in counties Galway, Clare, and Roscommon, Duggan has occasionally transitioned to first-name usage following the trend of adopting surnames as given names. While uncommon as a first name, it carries a strong, masculine sound and connects its bearer to Irish heritage. For those seeking names with authentic Gaelic roots that aren't overly common, Duggan offers distinctive character while maintaining historical significance.
  14. Fegan

    • Description:

      Fegan is a rare masculine name with Irish origins, derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Faodhagáin, meaning 'descendant of Faodhagán' (a personal name possibly related to words meaning 'little raven' or 'little seer'). As a given name, Fegan represents the modern trend of transforming traditional surnames into first names. It carries a strong Celtic heritage while remaining relatively unknown, giving it a distinctive quality. The name has a crisp, concise sound that aligns with contemporary preferences for short but substantial boys' names. Fegan's rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking an uncommon name with authentic Irish roots and a masculine feel. While never achieving widespread popularity, it occasionally appears in Irish diaspora communities and among families researching their Celtic heritage for naming inspiration.
  15. Macaulee

    • Description:

      Macaulee is a modern spelling variation of Macaulay or Macauley, a masculine name with Scottish and Irish Gaelic origins. The traditional name derives from 'Mac Amhalghaidh,' meaning 'son of Amhalghaidh' (an ancient Gaelic personal name). This contemporary spelling with the double 'e' ending gives the name a distinctive look while maintaining the original pronunciation. Historically, Macaulay was primarily a surname before transitioning to occasional use as a first name. The name gained some recognition through notable bearers like the historian Thomas Babington Macaulay and actor Macaulay Culkin. Macaulee offers the nickname possibilities of Mac or Lee, combining traditional Celtic heritage with a modern spelling twist.

  16. Byrnes

    • Description:

      Byrnes originated as an Irish surname derived from the Gaelic 'Ó Broin,' meaning 'descendant of Bran,' where Bran referred to 'raven.' As a masculine given name, Byrnes represents the growing trend of adopting family surnames as first names. It carries connotations of Irish heritage and strength, with the raven symbolism suggesting intelligence and mysticism in Celtic traditions. The name remains quite rare as a first name, offering distinctiveness while maintaining clear cultural roots. Its single-syllable pronunciation despite the multiple letters gives it a concise, strong quality. Byrnes appeals particularly to families with Irish ancestry looking to honor their heritage or those drawn to the sophisticated, established quality that surname-based first names often convey.
  17. Mackey

    • Description:

      Mackey is a masculine name that originated as a surname derived from the Gaelic Mac Aodha, meaning "son of Aodh" or "son of Hugh." Aodh was a popular Irish and Scottish name meaning "fire." As a first name, Mackey emerged through the tradition of using family surnames as given names, a practice particularly common in American naming customs. Though not among the most popular first names, Mackey has a friendly, approachable quality with its upbeat sound and casual feel. It carries associations with Irish and Scottish heritage while maintaining a distinctly American character. The name exudes a cheerful, unpretentious personality and offers the friendly nickname Mac.
  18. Sheenan

    • Origin:

      Irish surname, variation of Shannon

    • Meaning:

      "old and wise"

    • Description:

      Sheenan updates the longtime Irish favorite Shannon, which ranked in the US Top 100 through much of the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. Shanon fell off the Top 1000 about ten years ago, but Sheenan is a worthy substitute. You might also consider it a form of Sheena, itself a form of Jane or John, with the meaning "God is gracious".
  19. Sweeney

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "the little hero"

    • Description:

      Friendly-sounding name with big "Sweeney Todd" downside.
  20. Macaully

    • Description:

      Macaully is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Macaulay or MacAulay, which originated as a Scottish and Irish surname. The Gaelic origin 'Mac Amhalghaidh' means 'son of Amhalghaidh', an old personal name. This alternate spelling adds a distinctive touch to the traditional name while maintaining its Celtic heritage. Macaully has a melodic quality with its flowing syllables and distinctive ending. While less common than the standard Macaulay spelling, it offers a fresh take on the traditional name. The name carries associations with scholarly pursuits due to notable bearers like Thomas Babington Macaulay, the British historian. Potential nicknames include Mac, Cully, or Aully.