690+ Irish Names (With Meanings and Popularity)

Eire was a mythological goddess who named Ireland after herself. Rarely used today, even in Eire.

Long popular in Ireland and England, Ciarán is the name of Ireland's first-born saint and twenty-five other saints. While this is the authentic Irish spelling, it is more familiar in the US in the Anglicized Kieran spelling.

This original spelling may present its challenges outside of Ireland, but it certainly has a more poetic look to it. Those daunted by the pronunciation obstacles may wish to consider Keenan.

This fanciful Irish extension of Bridget is known here through the wacky Amelia Bedelia books for kids -- an association your child may or may not like.

Irish goddess and saint name that's strong, to say the least.

Eachna is the name of an Irish goddess renowned for her beauty, brains and stylishness; in early legend, a Connacht princess named Eachna was deemed to be one of the loveliest and cleverest women int he world.

The spoiled only son of the richest family in town in a fifties movie.

Occasionally used as an alternative to Brandon or Brennan.

This appealing name of a mythical king of Tara whose reign brough prosperity to his kingdom is strongly associated with actor Sean. The Irish form is Conaire.

Less appealing than some other Irish surnames, such as Malone and Sullivan, unless used as a tribute to jazz musician Gerry. There could be some Mulligan stew teasing.

Attached in Irish mythology to a Cliona who was, among other things, an inspirer of poets. Cliona is well-used in modern Ireland, along with Irish form Cliodhna, though it's largely unknown in the rest of the world.

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.

Can't help thinking of a donkey.

An old Irish surname cousin of Tierney that makes an unusual and appealing Irish gender switch.

Hurley is a possibility as a unisex surname-name ending with the "lee" sound. It is perhaps most associated with British actress Elizabeth Hurley, and is much rarer than Harley, because the "ur" sound is currently out of fashion (and the word "hurl" may put some off).

More streamlined – and more authentic – than Shawna.

Pleasant modernization of dated original.

The whole Talulla, Talullah, Tallulah, Talula thing is very confusing, but basically the versions that have one l first are Irish and those with two are Native American. However you parse it, Talulla is an adorable name with ancient roots and a quirky, contemporary feel.

Also spelled Aibhilín, this spelling variation of Evelyn or the related Aveline might appeal to those who prefer the Irish form. Little Aibhilins might have to explain how to pronounce their name outside of Ireland, but some may feel that it's worth it to choose a unique option.