Irish Girl Names

Popular and Common Irish Girl Names

Aoife

Pronounced EE-fa, this name means “beauty.”

Aoife originates from the old Irish name Aífe and the word oíph.

The name appears in several Irish legends, including the Children of Lir.

Aisling

This name for girls is pronounced ASH-lyeen with a soft n sound. Aisling means “dream” or “vision” and is the Irish version of Ashley.

Bridget

Bridget was particularly popular among Irish Americans in the 1970s.

It is the anglicized form of the old Irish name Brighid.

The original Celtic name Brigantī means “the exalted one.”

In Irish mythology, Bridget is the daughter of Dagda and the goddess of fire, poetry, and wisdom.

Caitlin

In the 1980s, Caitlin was a widely chosen name for girls.

It is the anglicized variant of the Irish name Caitlín, derived from the French name Katherine, meaning “pure.”

Variants like Katelyn, Kaitlyn, and Caetlin are also common, as well as international versions like the Hawaiian Kakalina.

Erin

Erin is a popular choice for girls with Irish roots.

The name is widely used in the United States, Canada, and Australia.

It is the anglicized form of Eireann, meaning “Ireland,” from the Irish Gaelic word Éire.

Fiona

Fiona was once common in Ireland and the British Isles but lost popularity there in the early 2000s.

However, it gained traction in the United States around the same time, possibly due to the character Fiona in the Shrek movies.

The name Fíona derives from the word fíon, meaning “wine.”

Maeve

Maeve, pronounced MAYV, means “intoxicating.”

It is the anglicized form of the Irish name Medb.

In legend, Medb was the female Celtic warrior queen of Connacht, the western province of Ireland.

Mona

Mona is an old-fashioned name and the anglicized form of the Irish name Muadhnait, meaning “little noble one.”

It’s also found in other cultures, including Italian.

Niamh

Pronounced NEEV, Niamh is known for its unique sound.

It means “bright.” In Irish mythology, Niamh is the daughter of Manannán mac Lir, the sea god.

Saoirse

Saoirse, pronounced SHEER-sha, means “freedom” in Irish Gaelic.

Actress Saoirse Ronan has popularized the name, often correcting its pronunciation publicly.

Unique and Rare Irish Girl Names

Africa

Africa is a unique name in Ireland, derived from Aifric. This Old Irish word is associated with the African continent.

Aithne

Pronounced EH-nye, Aithne is a variant of the more traditional spelling, Eithne.

The name means “kernel, grain” and was once popular among historical figures, legendary characters, and saints.

Eireann

Eireann, pronounced like Erin, is a rare variation of a more common name. In Gaelic, it means “Ireland”.

Fedelma

Fedelma is a less common form of the name Fidelma, the feminine version of the name Feidlimid.

This name means “ever good” or “enduring, constant.”

Líadan

Líadan is pronounced LEE-din and comes from the Irish word líath, which means “gray.”

Mavourneen

This rare name means “my darling” and comes from the Irish phrase mo mhúirnín.

It is pronounced mo-OOR-een.

Muadhnait

Muadhnait, pronounced MOI-nets, translates to “little noble one.”

It comes from the Old Irish word muad, which is associated with poetry.

Rathnait

Rathnait, a rare Irish name, is pronounced RA-net.

It originates from the old Irish word rath and means “grace, prosperity.”

Róis

Róis is the Irish form of Rose. The word rós simply means “rose” and has the same pronunciation.

Talulla

Talulla is the anglicized form of several Old Irish female names, such as Taileflaith, Tuileflaith, and Tuilelaith.

The name combines Irish words tuile and flaith, meaning “abundance” and “ruler, princess,” respectively.

Traditional and Old-Fashioned Irish Girl Names

Assumpta

Assumpta is derived from the Latin form of Asunción, a Spanish name meaning “assumption.”

This unique name has seen usage in Ireland, adding a distinctive touch to it.

Aurnia

Aurnia is the Latinized form of the traditional Irish name Órlaith, meaning “golden ruler.” This name exudes elegance and timeless charm.

Clodagh

Clodagh is pronounced KLAW-da and is linked to the River Clodiagh in County Waterford, Ireland.

An early bearer of this name was Clodagh Beresford, the daughter of the Marquess of Waterford, born in 1879.

This name is deeply rooted in Irish tradition.

Deirdre

Deirdre, pronounced DEER-dra, originates from the Old Irish name Derdriu.

Though its exact meaning is unknown, many believe it may be connected to the word der, meaning “daughter.”

This makes it a fitting choice for a little girl.

Doireann

Doireann, pronounced DEH-ryen, is thought to be associated with the Irish words der for “daughter” and finn for “fair.”

This name means “fair daughter,” making it a beautiful and poetic choice.

Eithne

Eithne, pronounced EH-nye, comes from the Irish word etne, meaning “kernel, grain.”

This name is a perfect old-fashioned option for those who prefer a name with deep historical roots.

Étaín

Étaín, pronounced AY-teen, means “passion” from the word ét.

This name is also rooted in Irish mythology, particularly the tale The Wooing of Étaín.

In the story, Étaín is Midir’s second wife, reborn as a human after being transformed into a fly.

This name has a rich literary background.

Gobnait

Gobnait is the feminine form of Gobán, meaning “smith” after the Celtic smith god.

Pronounced GAWB-neht, it carries a strong sense of tradition and history, making it a unique choice.

Gráinne

Gráinne, pronounced GRAW-nye, possibly means “grain.”

This name is tied to Gráinne Ní Mháille, also known as Grace O’Malley, a legendary sixteenth-century landowner and seafarer.

This name reflects a deep connection to Irish heritage.

Muriel

Muriel is an anglicized form of an Irish name meaning “bright sea.”

Its traditional forms are Muirgel in Irish and Muireall in Scottish. This old-fashioned name carries a serene and timeless beauty.

Cute Irish Girl Names

Alannah

This modern Irish name has won the hearts of many Americans with Irish roots.

It possibly stems from the Irish Gaelic phrase a leanbh, meaning “oh, child.”

Alannah can also be spelled as Alanna.

Aoibhinn

Meaning “delightful, pleasant,” Aoibhinn is a charming choice for a baby girl. The pronunciation is EE-vyen.

Bláthnat

Bláthnat translates to “little flower” in Irish, making it a very cute option.

It comes from the word bláth, which means “flower.” It’s pronounced BLAW-nath.

Caitria

Caitria is a sweet variation of Caitríona, the Irish version of the name Katherine, which means “pure.”

This name is pronounced KAT-ree-a.

Croía

Croía, pronounced KREE-a, is a modern name derived from the Irish word croí, meaning “heart.”

Damhnait

This name has a delightful origin, tracing back to the Old Irish name Damnat, which means “calf, fawn.”

It’s pronounced DAW-nye and brings to mind cute baby animals.

Keavy

Keavy is a lovely alternative to the traditional Irish name Caoimhe, which is pronounced KEE-va.

It shares the same meanings: “dear, beloved” and “gentle.”

Maura

Maura, pronounced MAWR-eh, is the anglicized form of the Irish name Máire.

Experts think it’s linked to the word mór, meaning “great.”

Nollaig

Nollaig is an adorable unisex name that is the Irish word for “Christmas.”

This modern name is pronounced NAW-layk.

Úna

Short and sweet, Úna means “lamb” in medieval Irish. This adorable name is pronounced OO-neh.

Pretty and Beautiful Irish Girl Names

Áine

Áine is the Old Irish form of Ann or Anne and sounds the same.

This name means “radiance, brilliance” and ties back to Irish mythology.

Áine is the goddess of love and fertility, believed to live on Cnoc Áine, a hill in Limerick.

Aoibheann

Pronounced EE-vyen, Aoibheann derives from the Old Irish names Oébfinn and Aíbinn.

These names combine the words oíb (beauty) and finn (fair). Aoibheann was also a tenth-century princess, making it a regal choice.

Caoimhe

Caoimhe, said as KEE-va, means “dear, beloved.”

It’s a charming and lovely name with a beautiful sound and a deeper connection to a loved one.

Eileen

Eileen is the Anglicized version of Eibhlín and is pronounced IE-leen.

The name might mean “desired” or “moon,” offering a sweet option for an Irish American girl.

Eilís

Eilís is pronounced IE-leesh and is the Irish Gaelic form of Elizabeth or sometimes Alice.

Elizabeth means “my God is an oath,” and Alice means “noble type,” providing rich interpretations.

Laoise

Laoise, said as LEE-sheh, is the Irish form of Lucy or Louise.

Thought to be a modern version of Luigsech, it signifies “light, brightness” and “oath,” bringing forth positive imagery.

Moira

Moira is the Anglicized version of Máire, the Irish name for Mary, which means “beloved.”

It may also relate to the Greek name Μοῖρα, meaning “fate, destiny,” adding a mythological touch.

Róisín

Róisín, meaning “rose,” is a diminutive form of Róis.

Inspired by the famous seventeenth-century song Róisín Dubh, it’s a lovely floral name for a girl.

Rosaleen

Rosaleen is a variant of Rosaline and Róisín, carrying the meaning “rose.”

It’s a sweet name option with a floral connection.

Sorcha

Sorcha, meaning “radiant, bright,” might be the most beautiful Irish girls’ name.

It originates from Scottish Gaelic and is sometimes Anglicized as Sarah in Ireland or Clara in Scotland.

Cool Irish Girl Names

Biddy

With Bridget being one of the top Irish girls’ names, why not put a cool spin on it with the nickname Biddy?

Like Bridget, it means “the exalted one.”

Ciara

This name is the feminine form of Ciar, which means “black” in Irish.

It’s pronounced KEER-a. If you’re a fan of the American singer Ciara, you might recognize this name.

Clíodhna

Though its meaning is unknown, Clíodhna was the name of a beautiful and brave goddess from Irish mythology.

It’s pronounced KLEE-u-na.

Dáirine

You can pronounce this cool Irish girls’ name DAW-reen.

It was the name of king Túathal Techtmar’s daughter and means “fruitful.”

Fiadh

This super cool Irish girls’ name means “wild, untamed” and would suit an adventurous daughter!

It’s pronounced FYEE-eh and has been climbing the charts in Ireland since 2012.

Naomh

This name is pronounced just like Niamh (NEEV). It means “holy” in Irish, making it a very cool choice.

Saraid

Since this name means “excellent,” it could be the coolest moniker on this list!

Plus, it has a pretty hip pronunciation as suh-RAY.

Síofra

If you think elves and mythical creatures are cool, this is the name for you!

Pronounced SHEE-fra, it means “elf, sprite” in Irish.

Sive

Pronounced SIEV, this is an anglicized form of the Irish girls’ name Sadhbh.

This cool-sounding name means “sweet.”

Tríona

If you want to shorten the traditional Irish girls’ name Caitríona and make it a bit cooler, go with Tríona.

It’s pronounced TREE-na and means “pure.”

Short and Long Irish Girl Names

Alastríona

This pretty Irish girls’ name has a romantic sound to it.

Pronounced al-as-TREE-na, it is the feminine form of Alastar, which means “to defend, help.”

Cáit

Short, sweet, and meaning “pure,” Cáit is the Irish form of Kate.

It is a great nickname for Caitríona and is pronounced as KAT.

Caoilfhionn

A contender for long baby names with its 10 letters, Caoilfhionn is pronounced KEEL-een.

The name comes from two Old Irish elements: cáel meaning “slender” and finn meaning “fair.”

Dearbháil

Meaning “daughter of Fál,” Dearbháil refers to the legendary name for the country of Ireland.

Pronounced DYA-ra-wal, it offers a unique, cool, and beautiful choice for an Irish girls’ name.

Deirbhile

Combining some of the more complicated sounds in Irish, Deirbhile is pronounced DYEH-rye-vye-lye.

The name means “daughter of a poet,” with der meaning “daughter” and fili meaning “poet” in Old Irish.

Ena

Ena is the anglicized form of Eithne, pronounced EH-na.

It also means “kernel, grain.”

Fionnuala

If you like the names Finola or Nuala but want a longer version, consider Fionnuala.

Like its shorter counterparts, it means “white shoulder.”

Fionnuala is the exact spelling of one of the four children of the sea god Lir, who were transformed into swans for 900 years.

Íde

This short Irish name for girls means “thirst” and is pronounced EE-da.

If you’re looking for twin names for girls, Ena and Íde could be a good pair!

Orla

A classic anglicized name for Irish girls, Orla is derived from Órlaith and means “golden ruler.”

Fans of the series Derry Girls may recognize the name as one of the main characters.

Síle

In the Irish language, an s before an i or e creates a sh sound, so Síle is pronounced SHEE-la.

As the Irish form of Cecilia, this name connects to the legendary martyr who is the patron saint of music and musicians.

Strong Irish Girl Names

Ailbhe

Pronounced AL-va, this Celtic name comes from the root word albiyo, which means “world” and “light,” and the Irish word ail, meaning “rock.”

Legend says Ailbhe was a female Celtic warrior from the Iron Age’s Fianna, a group of warrior-hunters.

Aran

Inspired by the rocky, windswept Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland, Aran is a unisex name that evokes strength.

It’s also a great choice for those who love nature-themed names.

Brighid

Brighid, pronounced BREEDG, is a traditional spelling of the popular name Bridget, which means “the exalted one.”

Since the Irish spelling reform in 1948, the variant Bríd has gained popularity.

Treasa

For a name that literally means “strength,” consider Treasa.

Pronounced TRA-sa, it is the Irish form of the name Theresa.

Scáthach

This name means “shadowy” and is associated with yet another female Celtic warrior.

Scáthach is pronounced ska-HA.

Órlaith

Pronounced OHR-la, Órlaith means “golden ruler,” connoting strength and leadership.

This traditional spelling is a beautiful nod to ancient Irish roots.

Fianna

Fianna means “band of warriors” and is pronounced FYEE-eh-neh.

It is a more modern name, inspired by the warrior-hunters that Ailbhe was part of.

Ríoghnach

Pronounced RIEF-nyak, Ríoghnach means “queen” and is a fitting name for a little one who will rule the household.

Neasa

In Irish mythology, Neasa, pronounced NYA-she, was the mother of Conchobar, a young king of Ulster.

She played a crucial role in establishing him as a ruler.

Muirgen

Meaning “born of the sea,” Muirgen is a name that evokes strength and resilience.

Pronounced MUHR-gen, it also belongs to a mythical woman who was turned into a mermaid for 300 years.

Irish Forms of Common Girl Names

Aignéis

Aignéis, pronounced AJ-nyesh, is the Irish take on the name Agnes.

Agnes has Greek origins and means “chaste.” While Agnes can feel a bit old-fashioned, Aignéis offers a fresh and unique alternative.

Báirbre

Báirbre, pronounced BAR-brye, is the Irish version of Barbara.

This name comes from the Greek word barbaros, which means “foreign.” It provides a distinctive twist on a classic name.

Caitríona

Caitríona, pronounced KA-tree-na, is the Irish form of Katherine, which means “pure.”

This name is often shortened to various nicknames, but it stands beautifully on its own.

Máiréad

Máiréad, pronounced MA-ryed, is the Irish interpretation of Margaret.

This traditional name can also be spelled as Mairéad or Máighréad, adding a layer of classic Irish charm to Margaret.

Isibéal

Isibéal is clearly inspired by the name Isabel and is pronounced the same way.

Isabel, a medieval form of Elizabeth, means “my God is an oath.” This charming name can also be spelled as Sibéal, pronounced SIHb-el.

Máire

Máire, pronounced MAH-rye, is the Irish form of Mary, a name that is both traditional and beloved.

Various spelling options include Muire, also pronounced MAH-rye, and Máirín, pronounced MAH-ryeen. Mary signifies “beloved” or “love.”

Ráichéal

Ráichéal, pronounced RAH-kel, is the Irish version of Rachel, a Hebrew name that means “ewe.”

This name is intriguingly similar to the Spanish name Raquel, providing an international flair.

Séarlait

Séarlait, pronounced SHAR-lat, is the Irish form of Charlotte.

Charlotte is the feminine version of Charles, which means “man.” Despite the different spelling, the familiar pronunciation remains.

Síne

Síne, pronounced SHEE-na, is the Irish take on Jane.

Jane connects to the male biblical name John, meaning “Yahweh (the Hebrew God) is gracious.” This name offers simplicity and elegance.

Éabha

Éabha, pronounced EH-veh, is the Irish form of Eve.

Eve, a Hebrew name, means “to breathe.” This name retains a sense of timeless beauty and simplicity.

Even More Irish Names for Girls

Siobhan

An old Irish name meaning “God is gracious.”

Aoife

A name that signifies “beauty” or “radiance.”

Saoirse

This name represents “freedom.”

Ciara

Derived from the word “dark” or “black-haired.”

Niamh

Symbolizes “brightness” or “shine.”

Catriona

A form of Katherine, meaning “pure.”

Aisling

This name translates to “dream” or “vision.”

Maeve

A traditional name meaning “she who intoxicates.”