Irish Gaelic Names that Start With S
- Sinead
Origin:
Irish form of JanetMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
One of the best known of the Irish girls' names, thanks to singer Sinead O'Connor. Though it's still in the Irish Top 100, it's no longer quite as fashionable in Ireland as Aoife or Aisling. But by now everyone in the Western World knows it's pronounced shin-aid and so would have no trouble fitting in on an American playground.
- Sina
Origin:
Samoan, English, German, Swedish, Norwegian, DanishMeaning:
"gray or white haired; god is gracious; new victory"Description:
Short, sweet, and perhaps misleadingly simple, Sina is in fact a multicultural choice with a wide range of origins. In Samoan mythology, Sina is used for a number of figures, and notably appears in the creation story of the coconut tree, Sina and the Eel. In this case, the name means "white or gray haired" and appears in the Disney movie Moana.
- Siobhán
Origin:
Irish GaelicMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
Lovely Irish name which has inspired many Anglicized variations, but using the original form preserves the integrity of one of the most beautiful Gaelic girls' names.
- Síne
Origin:
Irish GaelicMeaning:
"god is gracious"Description:
A Gaelic form of Jane which shares its simple, sleek look – but is much rarer. The Anglicized form Sheena peaked at #80 in the US in 1984, inspired by singer Sheena Easton.
- Sile
Description:
Sile, pronounced 'SHEE-la,' is a traditional Irish feminine name derived from the Gaelic name Síle, which is the Irish form of Cecilia or Sheila. The name ultimately comes from Latin 'Caecilia,' meaning 'blind' or referring to the Roman Caecilia family. In Irish culture, Sile has been used for centuries, though its spelling often confuses those unfamiliar with Irish naming conventions. Outside Ireland, the anglicized form Sheila became popular in Australia, where it evolved into a colloquial term for a woman. Though less common today than in previous generations, Sile remains a simple yet distinctive name that connects to Irish heritage.
- Seosaimhín
Origin:
Irish Gaelic variation of Josephine, FrenchMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
Seosaimhín is the Gaelic form of Josephine, most notably borne by traditional Irish singer Seosaimhín Ní Bheaglaoich.
- Somhairle
Description:
Somhairle is a rare masculine name with deep Gaelic roots, predominantly found in Scottish and Irish traditions. Pronounced roughly as 'SOR-la' or 'SORE-luh,' it represents the Gaelic form of the Norse name 'Sorley' or 'Somerled,' derived from 'sumarlidi' meaning 'summer traveler' or 'summer warrior.' The name carries historical significance, notably associated with Somhairle MacGillebride, a 12th-century Norse-Gaelic warlord who established the Lordship of the Isles in Scotland. Despite its rich heritage, Somhairle remains exceedingly uncommon outside Gaelic-speaking regions, largely due to its challenging pronunciation for non-Gaelic speakers. The name embodies Celtic cultural pride and connection to ancient traditions. For parents with Scottish or Irish heritage seeking an authentic cultural name with historical depth, Somhairle offers a powerful choice that honors ancestral roots while standing distinctively apart from more common Celtic names.
- Sibéal
Description:
Sibéal is a feminine Irish name pronounced approximately as 'SHIB-shal' or 'shi-BALE.' This beautiful Gaelic name is the Irish form of Isabel or Elizabeth, ultimately connecting to the Hebrew meaning 'God is my oath.' The accent over the 'e' indicates a specific pronunciation in Irish. Sibéal carries deep cultural connections to Irish heritage and language preservation, making it a meaningful choice for families with Irish roots or appreciation for Celtic culture. While relatively uncommon outside Ireland, the name has maintained consistent usage within Irish-speaking communities and has seen modest growth among those seeking authentic Irish names. Sibéal combines melodic sounds with historical significance, offering a name that feels both ancient and timeless. The name's uniqueness ensures individuality while its cultural authenticity provides a sense of rootedness and connection to Irish literary and linguistic traditions.
- Síle
Origin:
Irish GaelicMeaning:
"blind"Description:
The Irish Gaelic form of Cecilia, which is the origin of the Anglicized version Sheila, which subsequently became very popular across the English-speaking world.
- Sinéad
Origin:
Irish GaelicMeaning:
"god is gracious"Description:
Popular Irish name brought here by singer Sinead O'Connor, could make a striking choice for a child with deep Irish roots.
- Siobahn
Origin:
Variation of Siobhan, IrishMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
Variant (mis)spelling of Siobhan.
- Séarlait
Description:
Séarlait is a feminine Irish Gaelic name, functioning as the Irish equivalent of Charlotte or Scarlett. The name ultimately derives from Germanic origins meaning 'free man' or 'strong,' coming through French influences. The distinctive spelling reflects Irish orthography, with the acute accent (fada) over the 'e' indicating pronunciation emphasis. While relatively uncommon even in Ireland, Séarlait represents the preservation of traditional Irish naming patterns amid cultural revitalization efforts. The name carries a poetic, melodic quality when spoken in Irish, though non-Irish speakers may find the spelling challenging. For families with Irish heritage, Séarlait offers a genuine connection to linguistic traditions while maintaining links to the more familiar Charlotte. Its usage remains limited but meaningful within Irish-speaking communities.
- 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.
- Séafra
Description:
Séafra is a masculine Irish name derived from the Gaelic 'Seafra' or 'Séafra,' traditionally meaning 'peaceful' or 'gentle.' The addition of the accent mark (fada) over the 'e' indicates the traditional Irish pronunciation. This name has deep roots in Irish heritage but remains relatively uncommon even within Ireland. Séafra carries cultural significance while offering a distinctive option for parents seeking a name with authentic Celtic origins. The name's peaceful meaning contrasts interestingly with its strong sound. While challenging for non-Irish speakers to pronounce correctly, its uniqueness appeals to families wishing to celebrate Irish heritage or those simply drawn to its melodic quality and meaningful etymology.
- 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.
- 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.
- Síomón
Description:
Síomón is the Irish Gaelic form of the name Simon, carrying the same historical roots but with distinctive Irish spelling and pronunciation. The name derives ultimately from the Hebrew name 'Shimon,' meaning 'to hear' or 'he has heard.' The accent over the 'i' (fada) in Irish indicates a long vowel sound. While traditional in Ireland, Síomón is relatively uncommon even there, with the anglicized Simon being more widely used. The name has rich biblical connections, as Simon was one of Jesus's apostles in the New Testament. Síomón represents a way for families to honor Irish heritage while using a name with global recognition. The pronunciation differs slightly from Simon, with emphasis on the first syllable and a longer 'ee' sound.
- 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.
- Simond
Description:
Simond is a masculine name of Germanic origin, representing a variant spelling of Simon. The traditional name Simon comes from the Hebrew name Shimon, meaning 'he has heard' or 'listening.' The added 'd' in Simond gives the name a slightly more formal or distinctive appearance. This variation was more common in medieval times, particularly in France and England, but remains quite rare today. Simond has never ranked among popular given names in modern records. The name carries the same dignified, biblical associations as Simon but with a unique twist. For parents seeking an alternative to the more common Simon or wishing to honor a Simon in the family while providing a slightly different name, Simond offers a subtle variation with the same fundamental pronunciation and heritage.