Irish Gaelic Names

  1. Dainéal
    • Description:

      Dainéal is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin, representing the Irish form of Daniel. The accent over the 'e' (fada) indicates emphasis and lengthens the vowel sound. The traditional biblical name Daniel means "God is my judge" in Hebrew, and this Irish variant carries the same meaning while honoring Irish linguistic heritage. While not among the most common Irish names internationally, Dainéal offers parents seeking authentic Irish names an option that connects to both biblical tradition and Celtic culture. The pronunciation (roughly dahn-YALE) differs notably from its English counterpart, giving the name a distinctive melodic quality. In Ireland, it represents a way to embrace traditional naming patterns while maintaining connections to wider biblical naming traditions.
  2. Darach
    • Description:

      Darach, though listed as feminine here, is traditionally a masculine Scottish and Irish Gaelic name meaning 'oak tree' or 'from the oak.' It derives from the Gaelic word 'darach' referring to oak trees, which were considered sacred in Celtic cultures and symbolized strength, endurance, and wisdom. The name carries deep connections to Celtic heritage and nature. In Scotland, it may also be associated with Clan Darroch. While uncommon in mainstream usage, Darach has been gaining modest attention among parents seeking names with Celtic roots and natural meanings. Its strong sound and meaningful heritage make it appealing for those looking to honor Scottish or Irish ancestry. The pronunciation is typically DAR-akh, with a soft guttural sound at the end.

  3. Réamann
    • Description:

      Réamann is a masculine Irish name derived from the Old Norse name 'Hreiðmarr,' which entered Irish nomenclature during the Viking era. The name combines elements meaning 'counsel' or 'protection' and 'famous' or 'renowned.' In modern Irish usage, Réamann (sometimes anglicized as Raymond) maintains its cultural significance while being relatively uncommon. The accent over the 'e' (fada) indicates a longer vowel sound in Irish pronunciation. Though not among the most popular Irish names, Réamann represents a proud connection to Ireland's Norse-influenced heritage. It appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with authentic Celtic roots and historical depth.
  4. Raghnailt
    • Description:

      Raghnailt is a feminine Irish name of Norse origin, being the Gaelic form of Ragnhild or Ragnhildr. The original Norse name combines 'regin' (counsel, gods) and 'hildr' (battle), creating a powerful meaning of 'battle adviser' or 'goddess of battle.' This distinctive name reflects Ireland's Viking heritage and the cultural exchange between Norse and Gaelic peoples during the medieval period. While relatively rare even in Ireland today, Raghnailt appears in historical Irish texts and genealogies of important medieval families. The name carries strong associations with wisdom, strength, and leadership. For modern parents, Raghnailt offers a deeply historical choice with powerful symbolism, though its unusual spelling and pronunciation may present practical challenges outside of Irish-speaking communities.
  5. Isibéal
    • Description:

      Isibéal is the Irish Gaelic form of the name Elizabeth, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'God is my oath' or 'pledged to God.' The name maintains the rich heritage of Elizabeth while offering a distinctly Irish cultural connection. The pronunciation is approximately 'ISH-a-bale.' While not commonly used outside of Ireland and Irish diaspora communities, Isibéal represents a way to honor Irish heritage while using a name with deep historical roots. The name has been used throughout Irish history, though it has never been among the most popular given names. Parents might choose Isibéal for its melodic Irish sound, its meaningful etymology, and its connection to both Irish culture and the widely beloved name Elizabeth.

  6. Baibín
    • Description:

      Baibín is a traditional Irish feminine name with Gaelic origins. It's the diminutive form of Báb or Bába, affectionately meaning 'little baby' or 'little darling.' Pronounced approximately as 'BAH-been' or 'BY-been,' this name carries a gentle, endearing quality. Baibín remains relatively rare even within Ireland, representing a deep connection to Irish linguistic heritage. The name experienced limited usage historically, primarily in Irish-speaking regions. As interest in preserving Celtic cultural names has increased, Baibín has seen occasional revival among families seeking authentic Irish names. The inclusion of the accent mark (fada) over the 'i' in its traditional spelling highlights its Gaelic pronunciation and heritage.
  7. Bairtliméad
    • Description:

      Bairtliméad is the traditional Irish Gaelic form of the name Bartholomew, which comes from the Aramaic name Bar-Talmai, meaning "son of Talmai" or "son of the furrows." This distinctively Irish version of the biblical name maintains strong connections to Irish cultural heritage and language. In the New Testament, Bartholomew was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. The Irish form of the name has been used since medieval times, though it's considerably less common today than anglicized versions. Pronunciation might be challenging for non-Irish speakers, adding to its distinctive character. Bairtliméad represents a deep connection to Irish linguistic traditions and offers an authentic alternative for those with Irish heritage seeking to honor their cultural roots through naming.
  8. Séarlas
    • Description:

      Séarlas is the Irish Gaelic form of Charles, a masculine name with Germanic origins meaning 'free man' or 'strong and manly.' The name reflects Ireland's cultural tradition of adapting international names into distinctive Gaelic forms. While not among the most common Irish names, Séarlas represents an authentic connection to Irish language and heritage. The accent mark (fada) over the 'e' influences pronunciation and distinguishes it from anglicized versions. Popular primarily within Ireland and among diaspora communities with strong Irish cultural ties, Séarlas offers families a way to honor Irish heritage while using a name with international recognition in its root form. The name carries associations with strength and independence inherent in its original meaning.
  9. Aodg
    • Description:

      Aodg is an extremely rare masculine name with possible Celtic or Gaelic roots. It may be a variant spelling or abbreviated form of names like Aodhagán or Aodhan, which derive from the ancient Irish element 'aodh' meaning 'fire.' The unusual spelling with the final 'g' makes this name particularly distinctive and uncommon in modern usage. There are very few recorded instances of Aodg as a given name in historical records or contemporary naming data. Its rarity makes it challenging to establish definitive patterns of usage or cultural associations, though it carries the intrinsic mystery and heritage connection of traditional Celtic names.
  10. Aignéis
    • Description:

      Aignéis is a feminine name that represents the traditional Irish Gaelic form of Agnes. The accent on the 'e' indicates a specific pronunciation (roughly ang-NYESH). This beautiful Celtic variation derives from the Greek name Agnes, meaning 'pure' or 'holy.' Historically, Aignéis would have been common in Irish-speaking regions, particularly before the decline of the Irish language. The name carries connections to Saint Agnes, an early Christian martyr known for her purity and devotion. While relatively rare today even in Ireland, Aignéis offers a distinctive option for parents seeking to honor Irish heritage with an authentic Gaelic name. Its melodic quality and unique spelling provide an uncommon alternative to the more widely used Agnes, while still maintaining its traditional significance and spiritual associations.
  11. Sine
    • Description:

      Sine is a feminine name with Scottish Gaelic origins, pronounced "SHEE-nuh" in its traditional form. It developed as a Scottish variant of Jane or Jean, ultimately deriving from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning "God is gracious." In Scottish culture, Sine has been used for centuries, particularly in Highland communities. The name also appears in Irish contexts, sometimes as a shortened form of Sinéad. Despite its simple appearance to English speakers, its pronunciation creates a beautiful, flowing name with deep Celtic heritage. Sine remains relatively uncommon outside of traditional Scottish families and communities, giving it a distinctive quality while still connecting to familiar name forms. The name carries connotations of heritage, tradition, and the poetic qualities associated with Gaelic culture.

  12. Siothrán
    • Description:

      Siothrán is a masculine Irish name with deep Gaelic roots. Pronounced approximately as 'SHEE-raw-n,' this traditional name derives from ancient Celtic language elements. It may be related to the Irish word 'síothcháin' meaning 'peace' or 'reconciliation,' suggesting a beautiful meaning of harmony and tranquility. Like many traditional Irish names, Siothrán remains relatively rare outside Ireland, and even within Ireland it's considered an uncommon choice. The name carries the authentic heritage of Irish culture and language, making it appealing to families with strong Irish connections or those who appreciate Celtic naming traditions. The distinctive pronunciation may present some challenges in non-Irish settings, but this uniqueness also gives the name a special quality that distinguishes its bearer.

  13. Ranalta
    • Description:

      Ranalta is a feminine name with likely Celtic or Gaelic roots, though it remains quite obscure. It may be related to the Scottish Gaelic elements 'rìgh' meaning 'king' or 'ruler' and 'alt' meaning 'stream' or 'brook,' potentially signifying 'royal stream.' Alternatively, it could be a feminized form of Ronald, which derives from Old Norse elements meaning 'ruler' and 'advice.' Ranalta has a melodic quality with its alternating consonants and vowels, creating a pleasing rhythm when spoken. The name's rarity makes it appealing for parents seeking something truly distinctive with an ancient, mystical feel. While uncommon in modern usage, it carries associations with nobility, nature, and Celtic heritage. Its uniqueness ensures a child named Ranalta would rarely encounter others sharing her name.

  14. Vailintín
    • Description:

      Vailintín appears to be a unique spelling variant of Valentine or Valentín, names derived from the Latin 'Valentinus,' which comes from 'valens' meaning strong, healthy, or powerful. The name has been popularized through various saints and historical figures, most notably St. Valentine, associated with the February holiday celebrating love. This particular spelling incorporates elements that give it a distinctive appearance while maintaining the romantic associations of the original name. Vailintín has a poetic quality with its unusual orthography, possibly influenced by Gaelic or creative personalization. Though rare, it carries the same warm connotations of affection and strength as its more common variants while standing out as uniquely individual.
  15. Siofrai
    • Description:

      Siofrai is a masculine Irish name that represents a traditional Gaelic heritage. A variant of Siofra (more commonly feminine in modern usage), it derives from the Irish word 'síofra' meaning 'elf,' 'changeling,' or 'sprite' in Irish folklore. The name captures the magical and mystical elements of Celtic mythology, evoking connections to the Otherworld and fairy folk of Irish legends. Siofrai remains relatively rare, primarily used by families with strong connections to Irish cultural traditions who wish to preserve authentic Gaelic naming patterns. The pronunciation (roughly SHEE-fra or SHEE-free) can pose challenges outside Ireland, but this rarity also adds to its distinctive appeal. The name carries an ethereal quality while maintaining masculine strength in its traditional context.
  16. Gofraidh
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "peace of God"
    • Description:

      Gofraidh, pronounced guffry and sometimes Anglicized to Gotty, Gorry, or Geoffrey, was once a popular name, particularly among the O'Kane family. But in 1880 one Gofraidh MacCionnaith left a deathbed curse on any of his descendants who would revive the name.
  17. Coireall
    • Description:

      Coireall is an ancient Gaelic masculine name with roots in Irish and Scottish traditions. It's believed to derive from the Gaelic elements meaning 'warrior' or 'champion,' though some sources suggest connections to words meaning 'cauldron' or 'kettle,' possibly symbolizing abundance. This name carries strong Celtic heritage and evokes images of Highland strength and valor. Quite rare in modern usage, Coireall represents a deep connection to Celtic traditions and might appeal to families with Scottish or Irish ancestry seeking an authentic name from their cultural roots. The pronunciation typically follows Gaelic patterns with emphasis on the first syllable, though regional variations exist.
  18. Gearald
    • Description:

      Gearald is an uncommon masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Gerald. The traditional name Gerald has Germanic origins, derived from elements meaning "spear" and "rule" or "power." This alternative spelling with the added 'a' gives the name a unique mechanical quality, perhaps evoking associations with 'gear' or machinery. As a variant, Gearald remains quite rare in usage, not appearing in most popularity charts. Those named Gearald might share similar historical connections to the more common Gerald, which was particularly popular in the mid-20th century and has historical associations with nobility throughout European history.

  19. Muiris
    • Description:

      Muiris is a traditional Irish masculine name, the Gaelic form of Maurice. Pronounced approximately 'MWIR-ish' or 'MUR-ish,' this name has deep historical roots in Ireland dating back centuries. The name ultimately derives from Latin 'Mauritius,' meaning 'dark-skinned' or 'Moorish.' Muiris has maintained steady usage in Ireland, particularly in Irish-speaking regions, though it remains relatively uncommon compared to anglicized versions. The name represents a connection to Irish heritage and language, appealing to families with strong Celtic ties. While challenging for non-Irish speakers to pronounce at first glance, the name carries the authentic cultural resonance that many parents seeking traditional Irish names desire. Muiris embodies Irish linguistic tradition while connecting to the wider European naming heritage.
  20. Roís
    • Description:

      Roís is a feminine name of Irish Gaelic origin, functioning as a traditional Irish form of Rose or Rosa. Pronounced approximately as "ro-eesh" or "ro-ish," it contains the characteristic Irish combination of sounds that can be challenging for non-Irish speakers. The name literally connects to the flower and carries associations with beauty, love, and natural grace. Roís has remained relatively obscure outside Ireland, though interest in authentic Irish names has increased internationally in recent decades. The name offers a strong cultural connection for families with Irish heritage while providing a distinctive alternative to the more common Rose variations. Its brevity combined with rich pronunciation gives Roís a sophisticated character that balances traditional roots with a contemporary appeal for those seeking authentic Gaelic names.