Irish Boy Names

Ireland, known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a treasure trove of beautiful and meaningful names for boys. These names not only reflect the charm and beauty of the Emerald Isle but also carry with them a sense of history and tradition.

Whether you have Irish roots or simply appreciate the enchanting allure of Irish names, there are plenty of options to consider for your little one.

Explore these unique and timeless names that may bring a touch of Irish luck to your family.

Popular and Common Irish Boy Names

Aidan

Aidan is derived from the original Irish name Aodhán and is pronounced AY-dən. It means “little fire.”

This name is popular not only in Ireland but also in the United States and the United Kingdom due to its trendy sound.

Cillian

Cillian, meaning “church” in Old Irish, has been a top name in Ireland for many years. The name is associated with a seventh-century saint and the well-known actor Cillian Murphy.

Conor

Conor is a classic Irish name that translates to “lover of hounds.” It is a modern form of the Old Irish name Conchobar. An alternative spelling is Connor.

Declan

Although the exact meaning of Declan is unknown, it’s the name of a fifth-century saint who played a significant role in bringing Christianity to Ireland.

Declan is gaining popularity in the United States as well.

Finn

Finn stems from the name Fionn and means “fair” in Gaelic. It is a short, strong, and sweet name that is becoming more popular each year.

James

James is ranked high among Irish boy names, though it does not originate from Ireland. The Irish version of James is Séamus, a name steeped in tradition.

One iconic James from Ireland is the writer James Joyce.

Liam

Liam is the abbreviated form of William and means “resolute protector.”

Among the top names in both Ireland and the United States, it is carried by famous personalities like Liam Neeson and Liam Hemsworth.

Rian

Rian, the Irish form of Ryan, means “little king” and carries a trendy, charming vibe. Although not yet recognized in the United States, it is a popular choice in Ireland.

Seán

Seán is the Irish equivalent of John and translates to “God is gracious.”

This name can also be spelled Sean and is pronounced SHAWN or SHAHN, depending on the region.

Notable figures include actors Sean Connery and Sean Penn.

Tadhg

Pronounced TIEG, Tadhg means “poet” and has historical significance, being the name of several medieval Irish kings and chieftains. This name adds a poetic and strong feel to its bearers.

Unique Irish Boy Names

Abbán

This unique moniker means “little abbot” and belonged to a sixth-century Irish saint. It’s a name with a sweet sound and an unusual meaning.

Ceallach

Pronounced KEHL-akh, this rare Irish boys’ name has several possible meanings, which include “bright-headed,” “war,” and “church.”

Several early Irish kings as well as an Archbishop of Armagh were bearers of this interesting moniker.

Comhghall

Despite its unusual spelling, Comhghall is simply pronounced KOW-all. This Old Irish name means “fellow hostage” and belonged to the founder of a monastery in Bangor, Ireland.

For a version that’s easier to spell, try Cowal.

Faolán

With its cute meaning of “little wolf,” this rare Irish boys’ name has a sense of fierce loyalty. It’s pronounced FE-lawn and has the option of the more modern version, Phelan.

Gobán

If you come from a family of metal workers or builders, Gobán might interest you. It means “smith” and is often associated with the Irish smith god Goibniu.

In Irish legend, Gobán Saor, also known as Gobán the builder, was a skilled architect and builder of churches.

Iarlaithe

Pronounced EER-lah, this unusual Irish boys’ name means “ruler” and belonged to a sixth-century saint and founder of a monastery in Tuam, Ireland. Jarlath is the anglicized version.

Nollaig

If you’re having a wintertime baby, consider this unique name meaning “Christmas” in Irish.

Pronounced NAW-lək, this sweet moniker stems from the popular name Noël.

Riordan

This rare Irish name looks trendy and strong enough to hit the top of baby name charts. Pronounced REAR-den and meaning “little poet of the king,” this name could be a winner for your baby boy.

Séaghdha

Don’t be turned off by this name’s unusual spelling, as it’s simply pronounced SHAY or SHAY-gh.

This moniker has the positive meaning of “favorable” and “learned,” and there are cute, modern variants like Sé, Shay, and Shea.

Tighearnach

Pronounced TEER-nakh, this unique name has a spelling that’s sure to turn heads. According to tales, a sixth-century Irish saint with this name was taken by British pirates to the Rosnat monastery before escaping back to Ireland.

Traditional Irish Boy Names

Aodhán

Aidan is the modern form of this classic Irish name. Meaning “little fire,” it was inspired by a sixth-century royal figure.

This Old Irish name carries a sense of vibrancy and uniqueness, perfect for a lively little boy.

Bréanainn

Pronounced BREH-neen, this name is the Old Irish version of Brendan, which means “king” or “prince.” It is a regal and historic name, reflecting noble heritage.

Brian

With roots in old Celtic language, Brian is derived from words meaning “hill” or “power.”

This name was made famous by Brian Boru, the eleventh-century Irish king who defended Ireland from Viking invaders.

Ciarán

Pronounced KEE-ron, Ciarán is a diminutive of Ciar, meaning “black.”

Notably, two sixth-century Irish saints bore this name, which has a longstanding spiritual significance.

Declán

Remove the fada from the A to get the more common English form, Declan. This name has an older, distinct variation, Deaglán, making it versatile and rich in historical context.

Desmond

An old-fashioned choice, Desmond comes from the Irish name Deasmhumhain or the surname Ó Deasmhumhnaigh. It referred to someone from “south Munster” in Ireland, an area historically known as the Kingdom of Desmond.

Eoghan

Pronounced O-əwn, this name is a variant of Owen and means “born of the yew tree.”

It is associated with several legendary figures in Irish mythology, adding a layer of mystique and tradition.

Feidlimid

With a pronunciation of FAY-lim, this name means “ever good” or “constant.”

It has a positive connotation and was borne by three early kings of Munster, making it noble and steadfast.

Oisín

This name, pronounced aw-SHEEN, means “little deer” and has strong ties to nature and Irish mythology.

It is associated with a poet and warrior hero, the son of the legendary Fionn mac Cumhaill.

Patrick

Meaning “nobleman,” Patrick is closely linked with the fifth-century Saint Patrick, known for his influence in Ireland.

Whether in its original Irish form, Pádraig, or in nicknames like Paddy or Patsy, it remains a quintessential Irish name.

Modern and Cool Irish Boy Names

Aden

Aden is a sleek and trendy variation of the traditional Aodhán, with a modern spelling that makes it attractive.

The name means “little fire” and is also linked to Irish actor Aden Gillen, known for his role in Game of Thrones.

Braden

Braden is a cool name that’s gained popularity alongside similar names like Hayden and Jayden.

Originally coming from the Irish surname Ó Bradáin, it means “salmon” or “wide valley”.

Brady

Brady has long been a favorite in the United States, originating from the Irish surname Ó Brádaigh and the byname Brádach.

With the meaning “spirited,” this name carries a lively and charming Irish vibe.

Brendan

Brendan is a classic Irish name that remains fresh and wholesome. Derived from the Old Irish name Bréanainn and Old Welsh name Breenhin, meaning “prince,” it was borne by a sixth-century saint reputed to have reached North America.

Brennan

Brennan provides a cool spin on the names Brendan or Brandon.

Coming from the Irish surname Ó Braonáin, it means “rain droplets.”

In addition, Brennan’s bread is a well-known brand in Ireland.

Caden

Caden is a contemporary version of the Irish Gaelic surname Mac Cadáin, though its meaning is unknown. Its trendy sound has made it a popular choice in the United States.

Éanna

Pronounced EY-Naa, Éanna is a graceful, current form of the Old Irish name Énna, which means “bird.”

It’s an elegant and rare choice for a baby boy.

Fearghal

Fearghal is a modern take on the traditional Irish name Fergal. It stands for “man of valor,” making it a strong and distinguished name.

Keegan

Keegan, from the Irish surname Mac Aodhagáin meaning “son of Aodhagán,” is a cheerful and popular name. It offers a vibrant personality for a baby boy.

Kevin

Kevin is widely known across Europe and America.

It originates from the Irish name Caoimhín, meaning “beloved birth.”

The original Kevin was the patron saint of Dublin, who founded a monastery in the picturesque Glendalough, County Wicklow.

Strong Irish Boy Names

Cathal

From Old Irish, “Cathal” means “battle” and “rule.”

Pronounced KA-həl, it was the name of several Irish kings. This name reflects a classic and strong choice for someone who will rule your heart.

Cormac

This Old Irish name, possibly meaning “charioteer,” has a solid and strong sound. Cormac mac Airt, a high king in Irish mythology, bore this name.

Diarmaid

Pronounced DYEE-ər-məd, Diarmaid means “without envy.”

Known for the romantic warrior from the tale of Diarmaid and Gráinne, this name also has a more common variant, Dermot.

Domhnall

Domhnall is the Irish form of Donald, meaning “ruler of the world.”

Pronounced DO-nəl, this name has a wholesome and classic vibe.

You might recall the actor Domhnall Gleeson, or the anglicized version Donal, like the TV host and YouTuber Donal Skehan.

Fergal

Fergal means “man of valor.” It was the name of an eighth-century Irish king, making it a fitting name for a courageous boy.

Fiachra

Meaning “raven” or “battle,” combined with “king,” Fiachra is pronounced FEE-akh-ra.

This name appears in the legend The Children of Lir and is also the name of the patron saint of gardeners.

Lochlainn

Lochlainn comes from the Irish word for Scandinavia, meaning “Viking” or “land of the lakes.”

This evocative name might appeal to those with both Irish and Scandinavian heritage.

Máel Sechnaill

Pronounced Maw-il-shakh-nəl, Máel Sechnaill means “disciple of Saint Seachnall.” Two Irish high kings bore this unusual and powerful name in the ninth and tenth centuries.

Manannán

In Irish mythology, Manannán is the god of the sea. The name means “mountain,” making it a strong choice for lovers of the sea or mountains.

Rory

Pronounced RAWR-ee, Rory means “red king.” This name is great for a determined redhead. Famous golfer Rory McIlroy is a notable bearer of this name. The Gaelic spelling Ruaidhrí adds an extra challenge.

Cute Irish Boy Names

Aran

Off the west coast of Ireland lie the beautiful Aran Islands. The name Aran holds a short and sweet vibe, rich in history and inspired by nature.

Bran

Meaning “raven” in Irish, Bran is great for families of sailors and ocean lovers. It connects to the Irish adventurer Bran mac Febail. This name also appears in Game of Thrones as Bran Stark.

Caoimhín

This cute version of the common name Kevin is pronounced KEE-veen. It means “beloved birth” and is a delightful choice for any little boy.

Cian

Cian means “ancient” and “enduring” and is found in Irish mythology. This name is both popular and classic, enduring throughout the years.

Ciar

Perfect for a dark-haired boy, Ciar means “black” and is pronounced KEER. It can also be an Irish name for girls.

Conan

With the adorable meaning of “little wolf,” Conan is both strong and sweet. This name is well-known from Conan the Barbarian and famous figures like Conan O’Brien and Arthur Conan Doyle.

Conn

Conn can be a stand-alone name meaning “reason” or “chief.” It belonged to Conn of the Hundred Battles, a high king of Ireland.

Dáithí

Pronounced DA-hee, Dáithí is cute and unusual, meaning “nimbleness.” It’s an energetic name, perfect for a lively boy.

Lorcán

Lorcán is pronounced LOR-kawn and means “little fierce one.” This name could be inspirational for a son, highlighting strength and determination.

Niall

Niall is the Irish form of Neil with meanings like “passion,” “hero,” and “cloud.” Several early Irish kings bore this classic yet cool name.

Boy Names From Irish Mythology

Ailbhe

Pronounced AL-va, this name means “world,” “light,” and “rock.” Though it is the name of a female warrior in Irish legend, it was also used by a sixth-century male saint. This gender-neutral name carries a sense of strength and resilience.

Ailill

With the charming meaning of “elf,” Ailill is a name often found in Irish legends. Several early Irish kings bore this name. It’s pronounced AL-yil and stands out as an elegant choice for a baby boy.

Aodh

Aodh is pronounced AY or EE and means “fire.” Known as a name of kings and legendary figures, this unique name carries a fiery and powerful essence, perfect for a strong and dynamic little boy.

Aonghus

This name means “one strength.” Aonghus, one of the Tuatha Dé Danann, is a god of love and youth in Irish mythology. This name brings a sense of inspiration and beauty, making it a wonderful choice for a baby boy.

Balor

Balor was a giant mythological king known for his evil eye that could slay enemies. This strong and formidable name is perfect for a little boy with a fierce and determined spirit.

Cáel

Pronounced Ka-il, this short name belonged to warriors of the Fianna, a group of freeborn young males. Cáel is remembered as a romantic hero who fell in love with Créd, adding a touch of romance and bravery to this name.

Conall

Meaning “ruler of wolves,” Conall is a classic Irish name that appears in several legends. Conall of the Victories, known for avenging Cúchulainn’s death, is one notable figure with this name. It carries a sense of leadership and strength.

Conchobar

This name means “lover of canines” and is the source of common names like Conor, Connor, and O’Connor. Conchobar mac Nessa, an Ulster king in Irish legend, is one of the most famous bearers of this name. It brings a touch of nobility and affection.

Cúchulainn

Cúchulainn, meaning “hound of Culann,” is a name belonging to a famous warrior hero and demigod in Irish mythology. Known for his incredible adventures and heroic deeds, this name is both unique and filled with mythical charm.

Fionn

Fionn means “fair” and “white.” This name has a rich history in Irish lore, most notably borne by the hero Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool).

Tales of his wisdom and heroism, such as building the Giant’s Causeway, provide a strong and admirable legacy for this name.