Looking for a meaningful baby name rooted in heritage and history? Gaelic names are rich in tradition, beauty, and storytelling. With deep roots in Irish and Scottish culture, these names carry powerful meanings and often feature lyrical sounds and unique spellings. Whether you’re drawn to timeless classics or hoping to find a hidden gem, this list includes some of the most captivating Gaelic boy names and Gaelic girl names — from familiar favorites to lesser-known treasures.
What Are Gaelic Names?
Gaelic is a Celtic language that dates back over 1,000 years. While it was once the dominant language in Scotland, today it survives mostly in parts of Ireland and the Scottish Highlands. In Ireland, Irish Gaelic names are deeply tied to language and culture, with the Gaelic language still taught in schools and preserved through naming traditions.1,2
When it comes to Gaelic baby names, many trace their roots to Irish mythology, legendary warriors, saints, and natural elements. Some names may sound familiar — like Liam or Fiona — while others, like Tadhg or Siobhán, might surprise you with their spellings and pronunciations.
Gaelic Names for Boys and Girls
These Gaelic baby names span generations of Irish and Scottish tradition, from brave warriors and beloved poets to radiant goddesses and peaceful nature spirits.
Gaelic Boy Names
From legendary heroes to lyrical names found in folklore, Gaelic names for boys offer a bold mix of strength, depth, and history. Many trace their roots to ancient kings, warriors, poets, or spiritual traditions, making them timeless choices for families who value meaning and cultural heritage.
3 Most Recognizable Gaelic Boy Names
Some of the most beloved Gaelic boys names have become household favorites around the world. Names like Liam, Conor, and Brian top charts year after year — with Liam ranking as the #1 most popular boy name in the U.S. according to the Social Security Administration.3 These picks are easy to pronounce, rich in meaning, and carry strong ties to Irish heritage and history, making them perfect choices for parents seeking a familiar yet culturally rooted name.
1. Brian — This name became one of the most popular Gaelic boys’ names due to Brian Boru, a historic high king of Ireland. Pronounced “Bry-an,” this name means “high” or “noble.”
2. Conor — A great choice for an animal lover, as it means “lover of wolves and hounds,” this name is one of the most popular boys’ names in and outside of Ireland. And, it’s easy to pronounce — “Con-er.”
3. Liam — This common modern name stems from the old Gaelic name Uilliam and means “guardian” or “helmet of will.” Pronounce it “Lee-um.”
30 Timeless & Historic Gaelic Boy Names
From ancient kings to saints and poets, these traditional Gaelic names for boys have stood the test of time. Many of them come from legendary Irish figures and historical rulers, carrying meanings tied to strength, wisdom, and nobility. If you’re drawn to heritage-rich picks with powerful roots, these Gaelic names for boys are timeless options worth considering.
1. Anrai — The Irish version of the name “Henry.” You pronounce it “Awn-ree.” This name means “ruler of the home.”
2. Aodhan — Although modern versions of this name include Aidan and Aedan, Aodhan is an old name derived from the Gaelic name Aodh. Aodh was the prince of Daoine Sidhe, a supernatural race in Irish mythology. Aodhan is pronounced “A-dun” and means “fiery,” “bringer of fire” or “little fire.”
3. Art — Meaning “bear” or “champion,” pronounce this name exactly as it looks. And it’s a royal name, as two famous high kings of Ireland had the name Art.
4. Barry — Pronounce this name just like it looks: “Ba-ry,” which means “fair-haired.”
5. Cian – This traditional Gaelic name means “ancient” or “enduring” and is pronounced “Kee-an.”
6. Ciarán — Pronounced “Keer-awn,” Ciarán means “little dark-haired one” and was the name of two early Irish saints: Ciarán the Elder and Ciarán the Younger.
7. Cillian (also Kilian or Killian) — Cillian is a traditional Gaelic boy’s name linked to St. Kilian, the Irish missionary to Germany in the 7th century. This name has multiple meanings, including “little church,” “strife,” or “bright-headed.” It is pronounced “Kill-i-an.”
8. Colm — This name means “dove,” and you pronounce it “Coll-um.”
9. Cormac – Meaning “son of the charioteer,” Cormac is a legendary name thanks to the third-century high king of Ireland, Cormac Mac Airt. It is pronounced “Kor-mack.”
10. Daithi — Pronounce this name as “Dah-hee.” Daithi means “swiftness” or “nimbleness.”
11. Desmond — People often name babies after a special place. Desmond is one example, as it is the name of a historic kingdom in Ireland. And, this one’s another easy one to say, as you pronounce it, “Des-mond.”
12. Diarmaid — This name means “without enemy” and is pronounced “Deer-mud.”
13. Donnacha — Pronounced “Done-acka,” Donnacha means “dark chief.” A famous high king of Ireland had this name.
14. Dáire — Meaning “fruitful,” “fertile,” or “oak tree,” pronounce this name as “Dye-ray.”
15. Dónal — This is an old Gaelic boy’s name that means “world ruler.” Dónal is pronounced “Doh-nal,” and its modernized version is Donald.
16. Eógan — Meaning “noble-born” or “youth,” this name is pronounced “Oh-en” (like “Owen”) and is a historical name from Irish mythology.
17. Feargus — Feargus means “strong one” or “masculine one” and is pronounced “Fir-gus.” This name is one of the oldest known Gaelic names, so if you want a historic name, you might consider this one.
18. Fiachra — Fiachra is a name in “Children of Lir,” a famous story in Irish folklore. Pronounced “Fee-uh-kra,” this name means crow or raven.
19. Jarlath – Jarlath (pronounced “Jar-lath”) is a traditional Gaelic name that is not common anymore. St. Jarlath was a famous Irish priest.
20. Lorcan — Meaning “little fierce one,” this name is pronounced “Lor-kan” and was the name of many well-known Irish kings.
21. Niall — Meaning “passionate” or “champion,” Niall was the name of a famous Irish king. You pronounce this name “Nye-ull.”
22. Odhrán — This traditional Gaelic name has several meanings, including “dark-haired” and “pale.” It is pronounced “Oh-ran.”
23. Oisín — Pronounced “Ush-een,” Oisín means “young deer” or “fawn” and was the name of a great poet from Irish mythology. So, if you like poetry (or woodland creatures — or both), this would be a great choice.
24. Oscar — Here’s another excellent choice for your nature-loving child. Oscar is pronounced “Os-kar” and means “friend of deer.” The origin of the name “Oscar” goes back to Irish mythology and was the name of the grandson of the mighty Fionn Mac Cumhaill.
25. Rian — Rian means “king,” and you pronounce it “Rye-an.”
26. Ruairí – Pronounced “Ro-ree,” this Gaelic name means “red-haired” or “king.”
27. Rónán — From the Gaelic word Rón, which means “seal,” this name originated with a famous legend about a mother seal that became trapped on land, married a fisherman, and had little rónáns (seals). She eventually returned to sea but watched her family from the waves. Pronounced “Row-nan,” this name is said to mean “pledge,” “seal,” and “promising oath.”
28. Séamus — Said to be the Irish equivalent of “James,” this name means “one who supplants, replaces.” Pronounce Séamus as “Shay-mus.”
29. Tadhg — Meaning “poet” or “philosopher,” pronounce this name “Tye-g.”
30. Éibhear — Said to be the Irish version of the name “Harry,” Éibhear is pronounced “Ay-ver” and means “strong as a boar.”
5 Warrior & Royal Gaelic Boy Names
If you’re searching for strong, heroic names with deep cultural roots, these legendary Gaelic boys names bring power and prestige. Inspired by ancient warriors, noble rulers, and mythological heroes, each name tells a story of courage and legacy that still resonates today.
1. Aengus — This name is common and comes from Irish mythology. Aengus was the name of a famous warrior and also a Celtic god of love and poetry. It is pronounced “Ang-us” and means “one choice” or “one strength.”
2. Anluan — This name means “champion,” “hero,” or “warrior,” so it comes with a lot of expectations. It’s also a rare name if you’re looking for something less common; pronounce it “An-lon.”
3. Cathal — This name means “powerful in battle” and was the name of a famous Irish saint. Pronounce it “Ca-hall.”
4. Conán — Meaning “small little hound or wolf” in Gaelic; this name is pronounced “Cone-an.” And, this one’s a good name if you’ve got a brave little fighter, as Conán mac Lia was one of the mightiest warriors of ancient Ireland.
5. Fionn — Fionn means “white or fair-haired” and is pronounced “Fee-on.” This name is very famous due to the well-known stories of the mythical Irish warrior Fionn Mac Cumhaill. The modern version of this name is Finn.
5 Unique & Rare Gaelic Boy Names
If you’re looking for something distinctive and full of personality, these lesser-known Gaelic names for boys are rich in meaning and myth. From shapeshifters and warriors to dreamers and leaders, each name here offers a rare blend of history and originality — perfect for parents considering unique boy names with cultural roots.
1. Gearoid — This name means “strength of spear” and links back to Irish folklore. Gearoid Iarla, the Third Earl of Desmond, was the chief justice for Ireland in 1367 and was known to dabble in magic. Legend has it that Gearoid Iarla was sent to live beneath the ancient Lough Gur in Limerick, where, every seven years, he rides around the lake on a white horse. Gearoid is pronounced “Gah-rohd.”
2. Finten — Meaning “little fair one” or “white-haired,” Finten is a name from Irish mythology as Fintan MacBochra was a shapeshifter who survived the Great Flood and symbolized knowledge. It is pronounced just as it looks: “Fin-ten.”
3. Tiernan — This name means “lord,” and you pronounce it “Teer-nan.”
4. Ardan — Here’s a name for your little overachiever. Ardan (“Ar-dawn”) means high aspiration or high ambition.
5. Innes — Meaning “from the river island” or “one choice,” pronounce this name “In-ez.”
Gaelic Girl Names
From ethereal picks inspired by mythology to timeless choices passed down through generations, Gaelic names for girls are full of grace, strength, and beauty. Many are tied to queens, saints, goddesses, and nature, making them rich with meaning and cultural depth. Whether you’re drawn to poetic sounds or names with fierce spirit, this collection has something magical for every little girl.
13 Beautiful & Classic Gaelic Girl Names
Elegant, meaningful, and easy to love, these Gaelic names for girls have stood the test of time. Many are tied to nature, virtue, or beloved figures in Irish history and pop culture, making them familiar yet full of depth. If you’re searching for timeless options that feel graceful and grounded, this list is filled with lovely inspiration.
1. Aoife — You pronounce this name “Ee-fuh,” and it means “beautiful and radiant.”
2. Cadhla — This is a unique Gaelic female name you pronounce as “Kay-la.” It means “beautiful” or “graceful,” making it a lovely choice for your little one.
3. Caoimhe – This traditional Gaelic name means “gentle” or “precious” and is pronounced “Kwee-va.”
4. Fiadh — One of the most popular names for girls in modern-day Ireland, this name is pronounced “Fee-ahh” and has several meanings, including “deer,” “wild,” and “respect.”
5. Fiona — This name has been very popular over the years, Thanks to Princess Fiona in Shrek and the well-known singer Fiona Apple. It means “fair” or “white.”
6. Meara — Pronounce this pretty name “Mee-ra,” meaning “sea.”
7. Roisin — Roisin is a beautiful name that means “little rose.” You pronounce it “Row-sheen.”
8. Sadhbh — This is a popular Gaelic girl’s name, also found in history and mythology. Several real and legendary princesses have had this name. Sadhbh is pronounced “Sigh-ve” (rhyming with “hive”), and it means “sweet and lovely lady” or “goodness.”
9. Saoirse — Meaning “freedom,” this popular Gaelic name is pronounced “Ser-sha.”
10. Shannon — Shannon is another popular name with Gaelic roots. It means “Irish river” or “old river,” as the River Shannon is famous in Ireland. It is pronounced as you’d expect: “Shan-on.”
11. Sinead — A common name, Sinead means “God’s gracious gift,” and you pronounce it “Shin-ade.”
12. Siobhán — Pronounce this popular Gaelic name “Shiv-on,” which means “God is gracious.”
13. Teagan — Meaning “beautiful,” this is a popular Gaelic name today, and you pronounce it “Tee-gan.”
18 Mythological & Goddess Gaelic Girl Names
Deeply rooted in legend and lore, these Gaelic names for girls draw inspiration from ancient queens, saints, and powerful heroines of Irish mythology. Whether you’re hoping for a name with mystical charm or one tied to a storied past, this list offers meaningful choices that feel both timeless and enchanted.
1. Aifric — This ancient name means “pleasant” or “enjoyable,” and you pronounce it “Ah-frick.”
2. Aisling — The name “Aisling” was a name given to a specific genre of poetry from the 17th and 18th centuries in Ireland. You pronounce it “Ash-ling,” and it means “dream” or “vision.”
3. Bebhinn — It is said that Bebhinn was a goddess associated with birth, but other tales say she was a goddess of the Underworld. Pronounced “bay-veen,” this name means “melodious” or “pleasant-sounding woman.”
4. Brigid — The modern version is Bridget. This name means “strength” or “exalted one,” and it can be traced back to St. Brigid of Kildare, sometimes called “Mary of the Gael.”
5. Bronagh — An older Gaelic name popular today, Bronagh is a modern variation of Bronach, the name of a 6th-century holy woman who became the Patron Saint of Kilbroney in County Down. Pronounce the name “Bro-nah;” it means “sad” or “sorrowful.”
6. Caireann — Meaning “little friend” or “little beloved,” pronounce this name “Ka-ren.”
7. Cliodhna — This name means “shapely,” and you can trace it back to two distinctly different historical roots. For one, Cliodhna was a member of the Tuatha De Dannan tribe of warriors. But also, Cliodhna was a goddess of love. You pronounce it “Klee-ow-na.”
8. Daireann — This old Gaelic name means “fruitful” or “fertile” and traces back to Irish mythology. Daireann was a beautiful woman in Irish myths who fell in love with legendary hunter-warrior Fionn MacCool. Pronounce the name “Dar-awn.”
9. Deirdre — This name is no longer common and is linked to Irish folklore. Legend says that Deirdre of the Sorrows tragically died after her partner was cruelly taken from her. “Dear-dra” means “sorrowful, raging, or fear.”
10. Etain — An old Irish name, rare today, Etain was the name of a famous heroine with unrivaled beauty. You pronounce it “Ee-tane,” and it means “passion” or “jealousy.”
11. Gormlaith — “Gorm-lee,” this Gaelic name means “illustrious princess” and was the name of several Irish queens throughout history.
12. Grainne — A Gaelic name with endless tales and legends attached to it, Grainne appears many times in Irish mythology and history. In mythology, Grainne was the daughter of the legendary high king, Cormac mac Airt. Pronounced “Grawn-yah” and means “the sun.”
13. Ide — “Ee-da,” Ide means “thirst.” Ide was the name of an Irish saint who had a “thirst” for knowledge and promoted education.
14. Imogen — This Gaelic name comes from an Irish legend, and you pronounce it “Im-o-jen.” It means “maiden” or “daughter.”
15. Muireann — Muireann means “of the sea” and tells the tale of a mermaid. According to legend, the mermaid encountered a saint who transformed her into a woman. This could be a fitting name if you live beside the sea. You pronounce Muireann “Mwur-in.”
16. Niamh — Meaning “radiance or brightness,” this name comes from Irish mythology. Niamh, the daughter of Manannan, the god of the sea, is pronounced “Nee-v” (rhyming with “Steve”).
17. Orlaith — Orlaith means “golden princess,” and you pronounce it “Or-lah.” In Irish legend, Orlaith was the sister of Brian Boru, the High King of Ireland.
18. Rionach — This name means “queen,” and you pronounce it “Ree-in-ock.” Rionach was part of a famous family in Irish history that ruled for centuries.
7 Strong Gaelic Girl Names (Warrior-Inspired)
If you’re looking for bold, empowering choices, these Gaelic names for girls embody resilience, leadership, and grace. Inspired by legendary queens, mythological heroines, and timeless figures, each of these names carries a spirit of strength that makes a lasting impression.
1. Aine – Arguably one of the best-known traditional Gaelic girls’ names, Aine has roots in Irish mythology, as there was a famous Irish Celtic goddess with this name. Pronounced “On-yah,” this name has many meanings, including “summer,” “wealth,” “brightness,” “radiance,” and “joy.”
2. Dara – Pronounced simply as “Da-ra,” this name means “second.”
3. Eimear (also spelled Emer) — Eimear was the wife of warrior King Cu Chulainn, and these spellings have developed from her name. This name is pronounced “E-mur” and means “swift.”
4. Meabh — Meabh is a fierce Gaelic name, thanks to the legendary Queen Medb of Connacht, a formidable warrior with many great legends tied to her. Pronounced “May-v” (rhyming with “save”), Meabh means “intoxicating.”
5. Neala — Neala is pronounced as it looks: “Nee-la,” which means “champion.”
6. Sile – Sile is a traditional Gaelic name often spelled “Sheila.” Sile means “heavenly” and is pronounced “She-la.”
7. Sloane — Sloane means “expedition” or “raid” and is pronounced “Slone” (rhymes with “bone”).
27 Unique & Rare Gaelic Girl Names
Looking for something off the beaten path? These Gaelic names for girls are rare finds with lyrical sounds, meaningful roots, and a touch of mystery. From soft and radiant to bold and earthy, each of these names stands out in its own way, perfect for parents drawn to unique girl names with cultural charm.
1. Aila — Meaning “from the strong place” or “bringer of light,” pronounced Aila “Ay-lah.”
2. Alanna — This name means “child,” and you pronounce it just as it looks: “Uh-lanna.”
3. Alba — Alba is Gaelic for “Scotland,” and you pronounce it “All-bah.”
4. Annag — Said to be the Scottish Gaelic version of “Anna,” this name means “graceful,” and you pronounce it “Ann-ig.”
5. Aoibhe — You pronounce this name “Ee-vah” or “Ave-ah,” depending on the person, and it means “beauty” or “life.”
6. Aoibheann — This name means “of radiant beauty,” and you pronounce it “Ave-een.”
7. Blaithin — Pronounce Blaithin as “Blaw-heen,” and it means “little flower.”
8. Cairistiona — This name is religious, as it means “follower of Christ.” You pronounce it “Kare-is-tina.”
9. Caiside — Caiside is a unique name that you pronounce “Cass-i-juh” and means “curly-haired.”
10. Clodagh — Pronounced “Clo-dah,” this name’s meaning remains unclear. Clodagh became popular in the 19th century when a well-known nobleman named his daughter after the River Clodagh.
11. Eabha — This Gaelic name means “life,” and you pronounce it “Ave-ah.”
12. Eadan — Pronounced “Ee-din,” this name means “little fire” or “jealousy.”
13. Eibhlin — Meaning “hazelnut,” Eibhlin is similar to modern-day Evelyn, and you pronounce it “Ev-lin.”
14. Eilidh — Eilidh means “light,” and you pronounce it “Ay-lee.”
15. Eithne — This name means “seed, kernel, or nut,” and you pronounce it “Eth-nuh.”
16. Fallon — Fallon is a Gaelic name for girls that means “leader.”
17. Fidelma — Pronounce Fidelma as it looks: “Fi-del-ma,” meaning “beautiful.”
18. Iona — Iona is an island in Scotland and is a good fit if you’re looking to name your child after a place with a lovely name. You pronounce it “I-oh-na.”
19. Iseabail — This name is the Gaelic version of “Isabel” and means “God is my oath.” You pronounce it “Ish-uh-bel.”
20. Iseult — Iseult was an Irish princess and means “she who is gazed upon.” You pronounce it “Eesh-ult.”
21. Kyna — Meaning “goose” in Gaelic, you pronounce Kyna as “Kee-na.”
22. Laoise — Laoise means “light” or “radiant,” and you pronounce it “Lah-weese.”
23. Liobhan — Pronounced “Lee-vin.” This name means “beauty of women” or “beautiful” in Gaelic.
24. Mairead — Meaning “pearl,” pronounced Mairead as “Mar-y-ed.”
25. Saorlaith — This name means “free-born woman,” and you pronounce it “Ser-lah.”
26. Sorcha — Meaning “bright” or “brightness,” Sorcha has two pronunciation options: “Sor-kha” or “Sor-cha.”
27. Una — Una is a simple Gaelic girl’s name, meaning “lamb.”
Gaelic names offer a beautiful blend of history, culture, and meaning. Whether you’re drawn to bold and timeless Gaelic boy names or poetic, nature-inspired Gaelic girl names, there’s something deeply special about names rooted in Celtic heritage. From well-known favorites to rare gems, this list celebrates the richness and diversity of Gaelic tradition, perfect for parents looking for a name with depth and story.
You might also be interested in our lists of Irish names, Celtic names, elegant names, classic baby names, nature names, flower names for girls, cute girl names, rare girl names, and rare boy names. For even more ideas, visit our baby names hub.
