Sevenwaters Names

Aidan was originally a pet form of the Irish name Aodh (pronounced 'ee'), the name of the old Celtic god of the sun and fire. The name was borne by numerous early Irish saints, one of whom was noted for his kindness and generosity.

Aisling is currently a very popular Irish name for girls. Pronounced variously as ASH-ling, ASH-lin or ash-LEEN, it was part of the revival of authentic Irish names in the twentieth century, and is now being sparingly used by U.S. parents in place of the dated Ashley--though often spelled phonetically as Ashlyn or Ashlynn.

A little heavy on the fiber content; we prefer Bram. But Bran is also the Celtic god of the underworld, whose symbol is the raven.

Extremely popular in Ireland, Ciaran is also well used in England and is beginning to be adopted by parents in the U.S., though usually via the more American-friendly Kieran spelling. The Irish spelling is, however, becoming more familiar on this side of the Atlantic, due to the rising popularity of Belfast-born actor Ciaran Hinds.

A popular choice in Ireland, Clodagh was the name of a river and later a saint. The "cloddy" aspect of the name has prevented it from spreading beyond Ireland, but that could change. Famous namesakes are singer Clodagh Rodgers and chef Clodagh McKenna.

The Irish boys' name Colum, rarely heard in the U. S., makes an interesting alternative to Colin.

Conor's more popular brother name Connor has been in the Top 100 for long enough that both are ready to make way for a new generation of Irish boys' names.

Cormack is a masculine name of Celtic origin, specifically Irish and Scottish Gaelic. It's a variant spelling of Cormac, which derives from the Gaelic 'Corbmac,' meaning 'charioteer' or 'son of the chariot.' In Irish mythology and history, Cormac mac Airt was a legendary High King of Ireland, known for his wisdom and just rule. This historical and mythological connection gives the name a sense of nobility and leadership. Cormack remains relatively uncommon in contemporary usage, particularly with this spelling variation, making it an distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with Celtic heritage and historical significance. The 'k' ending gives this variant a slightly more robust feel than the traditional spelling.

Also Anglicized as Dara and also spelled Daire in its native form, Darragh has an undeniably rugged appeal. It's used for both girls and boys in Ireland, but it's very popular in particular for boys.

Sadly, this strong Celtic name often has "of the sorrows" attached to it because of the tragic character in Irish legend. Also a bit drab when compared with newer Irish imports.

Diarmid is a masculine name of Scottish and Irish Gaelic origin, derived from the name Diarmaid (also spelled Dermot). The name comes from the Celtic elements 'di' meaning 'without' and 'airmit' meaning 'injunction' or 'prohibition,' roughly translating to 'free man' or 'unbounded.' In Irish mythology, Diarmaid was a handsome warrior of the Fianna and the lover of Gráinne in the famous tale 'The Pursuit of Diarmaid and Gráinne.' The name has remained relatively uncommon outside Celtic regions but carries strong cultural significance in Scotland and Ireland. Those bearing this name often appreciate its connection to Celtic heritage and legendary bravery.

Eamonn is the Irish form of Edmund, derived from the Old English elements 'ead' meaning wealth or fortune and 'mund' meaning protection. Traditionally used in Ireland, Eamonn gained popularity throughout the 20th century and remains a strong cultural identifier. The name carries connotations of strength and prosperity, while maintaining its distinctive Irish heritage. Notable bearers include Irish broadcaster Eamonn Andrews and political figure Eamonn de Valera. While more common in Ireland and among Irish diaspora communities, the name has gained modest international recognition while staying true to its Gaelic roots.

Familiar in the US thanks to the lovely movie Brooklyn, based on the Colm Toibin novel of the same name. Popular in medieval times, it is still used in Ireland (properly spelt with a fada: Eilís) could make an alternative to the super-popular Isla. Eilish and Eibhlis are alternate forms.

This old Scottish form of Helen has had quite a history, going from appearing as one of the shining heroines of the Arthurian legends, the princess who fell in love with Sir Lancelot and became the mother of Sir Galahad, referred to as 'Elaine the fair' and 'Elaine the lovable', to being the name of the most famous of New York's celebrity restaurants, to being the archetypal New York neurotic on Seinfeld.

Evan has a mellow nice-guy image that has kept it popular, while it has been widely used in Wales since the nineteenth century. And interestingly—and surprisingly—enough, Evan charts highly for boys in France.

Fainne is a beautiful Irish female name with Gaelic origins, pronounced approximately as 'FAW-nyuh' or 'FAN-ya.' The name derives from the Irish word 'fáinne,' meaning 'ring' or 'circle,' symbolizing continuity and eternity. In Irish culture, rings hold significant meaning as symbols of connection, commitment, and the unbroken cycle of life. Fainne remains relatively uncommon outside Ireland, giving it a distinctive quality for those seeking a name with Celtic heritage. The name appears in Irish folklore and literature, further enriching its cultural significance. With its lyrical sound and meaningful etymology, Fainne offers a melodic choice that connects a child to ancient Irish traditions.

This is an ancient saints' name well used in Ireland but a rarity here and unlikely to ever reach the popularity of other Finn-ish names. St. Finbarr (the more common spelling) is the patron saint of Cork and in Irish folklore, Finbarr was king of the fairies.

Gareth, the name of a modest and brave knight in King Arthur's court, makes a sensitive, gently appealing choice, used more in its native Wales than anywhere else.

Suggests the salty, windswept air of the seashore.

At the height of the Jennifer craze, many parents were cutting straight to the nickname and putting Jenny on the birth certificate. But now that Jennifer is the mom rather than the daughter, Jenny, which has been somewhat replaced by Jenna, has faded as well.