Irish Names for Girls: Unique and Lovely Baby Names from Ireland

Irish Names for Girls

Looking for a unique and lovely name for your baby girl? Look no further than this list of 100 Irish girls names! These names are all taken from Ireland, and they are sure to give your daughter a strong and beautiful name that she can be proud of or maybe a middle name to match their first.

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Each of these names has a special meaning, and they all sound beautiful when spoken aloud. So if you’re looking for an Irish name for your little one, look no further! We’ve got the usual popular Irish girl names and traditional Irish girls names, but we’ve also delved deep to come up with some of the more unique Irish girl names which are steep in Irish mythology.

Many of the names we have chosen stem from an old Irish word, as many Irish baby names are steeped in Irish legend and Irish folklore. Some don’t have modern equivalents so if you are looking for unique Irish female names, this is your list!

Here are just a few of the beautiful Irish names for girls that you’ll find on this list:

Irish Girls Names Beginning with A

  1. Aibíogáil 
  2. Afric
  3. Aibreann
  4. Ailbhe 
  5. Aine
  6. Áinfean
  7. Aingeal
  8. Aisling
  9. Aoibh 
  10. Aoibhinn 
  11. Aoibheann 
  12. Aoibhe 
  13. Aoife

Aibíogáil

Pronounced: AH-bee-gwil

Meaning: The Irish name Aibíogáil has a number of possible meanings. One interpretation is that it comes from the Gaelic word for “sheep,” making it an ideal name for a child with a gentle, peaceful nature. Another possibility is that it is derived from the word for “noble,” indicating a strong and proud individual. Regardless of its origins, the name Aibíogáil is sure to be treasured by those who bear it.

Aifric 

Pronounced: Pronounced: ay-fric

Meaning: This gorgeous name means pleasant or enjoyable. It is sure to bring a smile to your face every time you hear it!

History: Aifric was the daughter of Godred and wife of the famous John De Courcy and noted for her patronage of religious convent in Northern Ireland.

Aibreann

Pronounced: AY-brahn

Meaning: This lovely name means “little springtime,” asit stems from the Irish word for April. making it the perfect choice for a child born in the warmer months.

Ailbhe 

Pronounced: AL-vye

Meaning: Ailbhe is a beautiful name with Irish origins. The meaning of Ailbhe is “white rock” (from the Irish word ail for rock, and albho meaning white or bright). This name is perfect for a baby girl born in the winter months. The name Ailbhe is also said to represent purity and innocence. She was the patron saint of wolves as she protected a wolf and her cubs.

Aine 

Pronounced: Awn-ya

Irish Names for Girls Aine

Meaning: Aine is a lovely name that means “radiance, bright, joy or glow.” Aine is a feminine given name in the Irish language, ultimately derived from Proto-Celtic *aidnā “she who owns cows”, cognate with Old Irish aidne “pasture” so she is connected with fruitfulness and prosperity. She was the queen of the fairies of South Munster.

Aine is also an Irish goddess of wealth and sovereignty, it is said she can both grant and remove a man’s power to rule. Irish legend states that “she was the best-hearted woman who ever lived, luck in love and money”. This is one of the more pretty Irish girl names and spoiler alert, the name I gave my daughter!

Áinfean

Pronounced:  awn-FEEN

Meaning: This beautiful name means thunder, storm, beauty or violence! It is the perfect name for a baby girl who is sure to make a splash in this world!

Aingeal 

Pronounced: AN-gel

Meaning: Aingeal is an Irish name that means “angel.” It is a feminine name, typically given to baby girls. Angels are generally seen as benevolent celestial beings who act as intermediaries between God and humanity. They are often depicted as having wings and halos, and they are often associated with purity and goodness. The name Aingeal suggests these positive qualities, making it a beautiful choice for a baby girl. Additionally, the name is unique and memorable, setting your child apart from the rest.

Aisling

Pronounced:: ASH-ling

Meaning: Ae is an Old Norse spelling of the Irish aoi, which might derive from Old Irish ās, meaning “dream” or “vision”. The -ling suffix is derived from the Germanic -ling or -ung and originally meant “offspring”, but came to mean “belonging to” or “follower of”. As a result, Aisling is typically translated as “dream” or “vision”. However, the name can also be interpreted to mean “noble” or “exalted”.

This dual meaning is fitting for the modern day Aisling, who is both aspirational and grounded. Aisling strives for greatness, but remains humble and compassionate. She is a force to be reckoned with, but also a loving and loyal friend and this is one of the more common traditional irish girls names.

Aoibh 

Pronounced: EE-vuh (Eve)

Meaning: Aoibh is a Irish name that means “beauty.” It is a feminine given name, typically associated with girls. The name Aoibh suggests beauty, both inner and outer.

In Irish legend, Aoibh is the mother of the four Lir Children, Fionnuala, Aodh, Fiachra and Conn. She died after giving birth to the youngest, and then they were raised by her sister Aoife who was an incredibly mean stepmother to them. This is a classic irish name and whilst its generally accepted as pronounced Eve, its a little softer on the ‘v’ part.

Aoibhinn 

Pronounced: ee-vin

Meaning: Aoibhinn comes from the old Irish word oibind meaning pleasant, agreeable, delightful, joyful, glad. The Irish name Aoibhinn has a number of potential meanings. One interpretation is that it derives from the Old Irish word for “pleasant”, which would make Aoibhinn a name meaning “pleasing” or “delightful”. Another possibility is that Aoibhinn comes from the word for “beautiful”, making it a name signifying physical attractiveness.

Additionally, Aoibhinn could be interpreted as meaning “joyful” or “happy”. No matter which meaning is most accurate, it is clear that Aoibhinn is a beautiful and evocative name with a long history in Ireland.

Aoibhe

Pronounced: EE-vuh

Meaning: Aoibhe is a Irish name that means “beautiful, smile, pleasant expression” It it also taken to mean neatness or elegance. It is a feminine given name, typically associated with girls. The name Aoibhe suggests beauty, both inner and outer. Closely related to Aoife.

Aoife 

Pronounced: EE-fuh

Meaning: The Irish name Aoife is derived from the Old Irish name Aífe, which was spelled a little differently in earlier centuries. The name Aífe is believed to be of Celtic origin, and it has been speculated that it may mean “beautiful” or “radiant.” However, the precise meaning of the name Aoife is uncertain, as there are no definitively attested meanings for the Old Irish name Aífe.

Aoife is a one of the most popular Irish female names, where it ranks as the third most common feminine given name. It is also found among Irish diaspora communities in other parts of the world. 

In legend Aoife was the evil step mother of the children of Lir (their mother was her sister Aoibh). In the Ulster cycle she was also the lover of Cu Chulainn and bore his only son Connlach.

Irish Girls Names Beginning with B

  1. Blathnaid
  2. Buí
  3. Brid
  4. Bebhinn
  5. Blaithin
  6. Bronagh
  7. Boann

Blathnaid

Pronounced: blaw-NID

Meaning: Blathnaid is an old Irish name that means “flower” or “blossom”. It’s one of the older Irish baby girl names. The name Blathnaid suggests beauty and innocence.

Blathnaid is also the name of an early Irish saint who was the daughter of a king in Munster. She worked as a cook in a convent in Kildare and was known for her abilities to continually dip her cup into an empty dearth, yet fill it with milk to feed the poor. She was a contemporary of St. Brigid (the patron saint of Ireland and a Warrior Queen).

Buí

Pronounced: BOO-ee

Meaning: Bui is an old Irish name that means “yellow” or “fair”. A bui is a hag or earth goddess in Irish tradition. Additionally, some scholars believe that Buí may be derived from the Irish word for “cow,” which was an important symbol in Celtic mythology.

Whatever its origins, the name Buí is steeped in history and has a rich meaning for those who bear it. It’s one of the rarer gorgeous irish female names, but it is making a come back!

Bríd

Pronounced: breed or breege

Meaning: Bríd is an Irish name that means “power” or “strength”. It is derived from the Old Irish word bríd, which originally meant “hill” or “mound”. In Celtic mythology, the hill was a symbol of strength and power. The anglicised version is Brigid.

The name Brid is also associated with the Irish goddess of fire, poetry, and wisdom. She was described as the goddess whom all poets adored. She was both a Pagan Goddess and an Irish St, St. Brigid who is the patron saint of Ireland (along with Saint Patrick and Saint Columba).

Brigid is on the most traditional Irish girl names and comes in many forms like Brid, Breege, Bridget and Brigid. A common nickname is Biddy and in 18th and 19th Century Ireland, along with Mary it was the common Irish girl name.

Béḃinn or Béibhinn

Pronounced: BEH-vin or BAY-vin

Meaning: Bebhinn is an Irish name that means “fair” or “beautiful” woman or melodius. It is derived from the Irish word bean (woman) and binn (melodius) translating to melodius woman. Or combined with the finn meaning fair.

In the Fenian cycle of Irish tales, she was a giant of great beauty. Bebhinn is also the name of an ancient Celtic goddess. She was associated with fertility and childbirth. In modern Ireland, Bebhinn is a popular name for girls.

Blaithin

Pronounced: BLAW-hin or BLAH-vin

Meaning: Blaithin is an Irish name that means “flower” or “blossom”. It is derived from the Old Irish word blath, which originally meant “flower, when you add ‘in’ it means little. The name Blaithin suggests beauty and innocence.

Blaithin was also the name of an early Irish saint who was the daughter of a king in Munster. She worked as a cook in a convent in Kildare and was known for her abilities to continually dip her cup into an empty dearth, yet fill it with milk to feed the poor.

Brónach or Bronagh

Pronounced: BRO-naw or BRO-Nah

Meaning: Bronagh is an Irish name that means “sorrow” or “grief”. It is derived from the Old Irish word brón, which originally meant “ lamentation”. The name Bronagh suggests sadness and mourning.

Bronagh was also the name of an early Irish saint (Saint Brónach) who built refuge for sailors shipwrecked in Carlingford Loch.

Boann

Pronounced: BO-anne

Meaning: Boann is an Irish name that means “white cow”. It is derived from the Old Irish word bó, which originally meant “cow”. In Celtic mythology, the cow was a symbol of fertility and abundance.

The name Boann is also associated with the Irish goddess of rivers and lakes. She was said to be so beautiful that her husband banned her from looking into any body of water lest she is entranced by her own reflection and drown. She defied him, looked into it which caused the waters to surge up, killing her and creating the river Boyne.

Irish Girls Names Beginning with C

  1. Cadhla
  2. Caireann
  3. Caitlin
  4. Caitriona
  5. Caoilainn
  6. Caoimhe
  7. Cara
  8. Ceili
  9. Cliodhna
  10. Clodagh

Cadhla

Pronounced: KAY-la

Meaning: Cadhla is an Irish name that means “beautiful, comely or “graceful”. It is derived from the Old Irish word cad, which originally meant “shape” or “form”. The name Cadhla suggests elegance and beauty.

In modern Ireland, Cadhla is a popular name for girls though it is a unisex name.

Caireann or Cairenn

Pronounced: care-in

Meaning: Caireann is an Irish name that means “little dark one” or “black-haired”. It is derived from the Old Irish word caor, which originally meant “dark” or “black”. The name Caireann suggests mystery and darkness. Alternatively it could mean little friend from the Irish word cara for friend + ‘in’ being little.

Caireann was the maternal mother of all the High Kings of Ireland as she was the mother of Niall of the Nine Kings. Whatever its origins, the name Caireann is now commonly used in Ireland and is a popular choice for baby girls. It has a fresh, modern sound while still retaining its Celtic roots.

Caitlin

Pronounced: Kate-lin

Meaning: Caitlin the Irish version of the Greek name Catherine, and it means pure. The name was popularized in the Middle Ages by Saint Catherine of Alexandria, who was considered a model of purity. 

Caitlins are often seen as kind-hearted, compassionate people who are committed to making the world a better place. They are natural peacemakers and have a deep respect for all life. Those bearing the name Caitlin are said to be blessed with good luck and happiness.

Caitriona

Pronounced: KAH-tree-uh-nuh

Meaning: The Irish name Caitriona is derived from the Latin name Katherine, which in turn comes from the Greek name Aikaterine. The name Katherine means “pure” or “innocent.”

Caoilainn

Pronounced: Kay-lun or KWAL-in

Meaning: Caoilainn is an Irish name that means “slender” or “graceful”. It is derived from the Old Irish word caol, which originally meant “ slender”. The name Caoilainn suggests elegance and beauty. It also means eternal warrior or brave warrior.

Caoimhe

Pronounced: Queev-ah (Munster) or KEE-va (Ulster Irish)

Meaning: Many Irish names have interesting origins and stories behind them. One such name is Caoimhe, which is believed to come from the Old Irish word caomh, meaning “gentle” or “kind” so often relates to a sweet and lovely lady. 

It’s the female version of the Irish name Caoimhín or Caoimhghín which is the Irish for Kevin and can be anglicised as Kevina.

Cara

Pronounced: KAHR-uh

Meaning: Cara is an Irish name that means “friend” or “beloved”. It is derived from the Old Irish word care originally, which meant “friend”. The name Cara suggests companionship and love. Today, Cara is a popular name in Ireland and across the English-speaking world.

The Irish name Cara is derived from the Gaelic word for “friend.” The name was originally used as a term of endearment, but it eventually came to be used as a given name. 

Ceili

Pronounced: KAY-lee or KEHL-ee

Meaning: Ceili is an Irish name that means “dance”. It is derived from the Irish word ceili, meaning a dance night. Families often went to local ceili houses and danced or listen to Irish music.

One interpretation is that it is derived from the Old Irish word for “assembly.” This may be in reference to a gathering of people, or it may simply be a name for a celebration or party. 

Clíodhna

Pronounced: CLEE-uh-nuh

Meaning: Clíodhna is an Irish name that means “shapely” or “beautiful”. It is derived from the Old Irish word cliú, which originally meant “famous”. The name Clíodhnasuggests attractiveness and fame.

In Irish myth, Clíodhna is the goddess of love and beauty and she is the Queen of the Banshees in the Tuatha De Danann.

Clíodhna is also behind the myth of the Blarney stone. She told the builder of Blarney Castle to kiss the first stone on his way to court to help him become eloquent in his court case, thus today kissing the Blarney stone having the gift of eloquence.

Clodagh

Pronounced: KLOH-dah or KLAW-dah

Meaning: Clodagh is an Irish name derived after the River Clodagh in County Waterford. It’s not actually an old Irish name, only first being used in the 1800s when John Beresford, the Marquess of Waterford, named his daughter Clodagh after the river which ran through his estate. So in that terms, its actually quite a modern Irish baby name.

Irish Girls Names Beginning with D

  1. Daimhin
  2. Daireann
  3. Damhnait
  4. Danu 
  5. Daragh
  6. Dearbhail
  7. Dearbhla 
  8. Deirbhile
  9. Deirdre

Daimhin

Pronounced: DAH-vin

Meaning: Daimhin is an Irish name that means “swift” or “quick”. It is derived from the Old Irish word dámh, which originally means ox or stag. With the form ‘in’ added that means little so it means little stag (dear in Irish is Fiadh). It’s more commonly known as a surname, Ó Daimhín, but can also be used as a first name.

In recent years, the popularity of the name has grown in Ireland and abroad. This is likely due to its unique meaning and sound. When pronounced correctly, the name has a lyrical quality that is reminiscent of Celtic music. Whether you are of Irish descent or not, the name Daimhin is sure to make a statement. Engish version may be translated as Devine or Devina.

Daireann or Doireann

Pronounced: DAHR-uhn or DAH-ruhn

Meaning: Daireann is one of the most popular Irish names for girls. It means “fruitful” or “abundant.” It is also the name of an ancient Irish goddess. The name Daireann has been used in Ireland for centuries. It is a very old name, and it has been found in many different forms over the years. Comes from the word doireann which means sullen or tempestuous.

In legends Doireann loved Fionn Mac Cool who spurned her advances so she poisoned him! Never cross a Doireann!

Damhnait

Pronounced: DAW-nit or DAHM-nit

Meaning: Damhnait is the feminine form of the name Damhán from the word damh, meaning poet so it’s taken to mean Saint, Bard or Poet or truthful one. She was a Saint from Co. Monaghan. Interestingly her staff was used as a lie detector! You can now see it in the National Museum of Ireland.

Often translated into the English name Dymphna however, this is not confirmed.

Danu

Pronounced: DAH-noo

Meaning: Danu is an Irish name that means “ goddess of the Tuatha De Danann”. One theory suggests that the name is derived from the Old Irish word for “river.” This would make sense, as the River Danube is one of the biggest rivers in Europe. Another theory suggests that the name Danu comes from an ancient Celtic goddess of fertility and wisdom.

Danu was the mother of the Tuatha De Dananna and is connected to many Goddesses across Europe. Often modernised as Dana. It is seen as a strong and beautiful name, with a deep meaning. Whether your heritage is Irish or not, the name Danu is a beautiful choice for your baby girl.

Darragh, Daire

Pronounced: DAHR-uh or DAWR-uh

Meaning: Daragh is an Irish name that means “oak”. It is derived from the Old Irish word data originally, which meant “oak tree”. The name Daragh suggests strength and stability. Traditionally a masculine name, in recent years its now a very unisex name being equally popular for girls and boys.

Daragh represented the Dagda in Celtic mythology, who was the God of the underworld, hence meaning strength and perseverance.

Dearbhail, Deirbhile, Dearbhla

Pronounced: DER-vil-uh

Meaning: Deirbhile is an Irish name that means “daughter of the poet”. It is derived from the Old Irish words deir meaning “daughter” and fal meaning poet. It has also been taken to mean true desire.

Deirdre

Pronounced: DEER-druh or deer-dra

Meaning: Deirdre is an Irish name that means “sorrowful”. It is derived from the Old Irish word deirid, which originally meant “despair” or “sorrow”. From the old name Deirdriu, her story, Deirdre of the Sorrows, is part of the Ulster Cycle legends.

It was prophesied that she would be so beautiful but because of this kings would go to war over her. On hearing this, Conchubar, decided to steal him for himself and planned to marry her. However, she fell in love with Naoise and they were forced into exile. Conchubar had them hunted down and killed Naoise’s.

Deirdre is a very popular name in Ireland, and it has been used for centuries. It is a beautiful name with a lot of history behind it.

Irish Girls Names Beginning with E

  • Eithne
  • Éadaoin
  • Eimear
  • Eabha

Eithne

Pronounced: eth-na

Meaning: Eithne is an Irish name that means “kernel” or “grain”. It is derived from the Old Irish word echtho, which originally meant “grain” or “corn”. The name Eithne suggests strength and stability.

Enya the Irish folk singer is actually called Eithne, but changed her name to Enya for people to understand.

In Irish mythology, Eithne was the mother of Lugh or Lug one of the most prominent gods in Irish mythology.

Eadaoin, Etain

Pronounced: AY-dhun or AY-dhoo-in

Meaning: Eadaoin is a modern version of Étaín and stems from the word ét meaning passion or jealousy.

Eadaoin ho was a sun goddess and a figure in Irish mythology, being the heroine of the Wooing of Etain legends. In legend, she was said to be the daughter of Ailill, of fair hair and the lover of Oisin. She was turned into a pool of water by Fuamnach who was jealous of her.

Eimear, Emer, Éimhear

Pronounced: ee-muhr

Meaning: Eimear is an Irish name that means “swift”. It is derived from the Old Irish word eimher, which originally meant “rapid” or “speedy”. The name Eimear suggests strength and stability.

Eimear was the wife of Cúchulainn in Irish mythology. She was the daughter of Forgall Monach and one of the most beautiful women in Ireland. She was also said to be very intelligent and wise.

Eabha, Eva

Pronounced: ay-vah or eh-vah

Meaning: Eabha is an Irish name that means “life” or “living”. It is derived from the Old Irish word éo, which originally meant “life” or “vitality”. The name Eabha suggests strength and stability.

Eva is the Latin form of the name and is also associated with the Hebrew name Chava, which means “life” or “living.”

In the Bible, Eve was the first woman and the mother of all living. She was created by God from Adam’s rib.

Irish Names for Girls Beginning with F

  • Fionnuala
  • Fiadh
  • Forbflaith

Fionnuala, Fionnghuala, Finnguala

Pronounced: fee-uh-noo-lah

Meaning: Fionnuala is an Irish name that means “white shoulder”. It is derived from the Old Irish words fionn meaning “white” and guala meaning “shoulder”. The name Fionnuala suggests strength and stability.

Fionnuala was the daughter of Lir in Irish mythology. She was turned into a swan by her stepmother and spent 900 years as a swan before being transformed back into a human.

Fiadh, Fiadha

Pronounced: fee-ah

Meaning: Fiadh is an Irish name that means “deer, wildness or respect”. It is derived from the Old Irish word fia, which originally meant “deer” The name Fiadh suggests strength and stability.

It’s become a really popular name in the last decade in Ireland, shooting into the top 3 spots in the last few years. It’s a beautifully soft name, with a gorgeous meaning.

Forbflaith, Forbfhlaith

Pronounced: for-vil-ah or for-vlee

Meaning: Forbflaith is an Irish name that means overlord, ruler, sovereign. It is derived from the Old Irish word forba, which originally meant “overlord” or “ruler”. The name Forbflaith suggests strength and stability.

This name was borne by several early Irish queens including Forbhlaith, wife of Niall of the Nine Hostages.

Female Irish Names Beginning with G

  • Gobnait
  • Grainne

Gobnait, Gormlaith

Pronounced: gawb-nat (Munster) gob-nitch (Ulster Irish)

Meaning: Gobnait means one who brings joy. Saint Gobnait was the patron saint of bees and bee keeping. It is usually given to girls born on February 11th, the saints feast day.

In mythology Gobnait was the wife of the Blacksmith God, Gabhan. The name is fairly popular in West Cork. Some have anglicised the name to be Deborah.

Gráinne

Pronounced: grawn-ya (Munster), grah-nya (ulster Irish)

Meaning: Gráinne many come from the Irish word ‘ghrian’ meaning the sun. Some have stated it means love but there is not clear on how. Many have stated that it is the Irish for Grace, but again, this is incorrect, the two names are not etymologically related.

In mythological legend, the tale of Grainne and Diarmuid is one of the most famous love triangle legends, where two young lovers elope from an aging pursuiter (Fionn Mac Cumhaill).

baby girl irish names

Female Irish Names Beginning with I

  • Ide

Íde, Ida

Pronounced: ee-dheh, ee-duh

Meaning: Íde is an Irish name that means “thirsty for goodness and knowledge”. It is derived from the Old Irish word íad, which originally meant “thirst”. The name Ida suggests strength and stability. Often given the pet name Míde (meeda).

Female Irish Names Beginning with L

  • Lasairfhíona
  • Laoise
  • Líadan
  • Liobhan

Lasairfhíona, Lasairíona

Pronounced: lah-sur-oh-nah

Meaning: Lasairfhíona is an Irish name that means “wine flame”. It is derived from the Irish word lasair, which originally meant “flame” and fhiona which means wine.

In history, Lasairfhíona was the wife of the King of Tyrconnell and mother of l Donnell Óg O’Donnell. Whilst not a common name there is a famous Lasairfhíona who is a singer/songwriter and Irish actress.

Laoise

Pronounced: lee-sha

Meaning: Laoise is an Irish name that means “light”. The name Laoise comes from the Old Irish name Luíseach, which is thought to be derived from the Proto-Celtic *Flavios, meaning “yellow, blond”.

The name is often given to girls born during the time of the winter solstice, when the days are shortest and the nights are longest. The light of the sun is said to bring hope and new life during this dark time of year. Laoise is also a popular name for girls born on Candlemas, when candles are lit to symbolize the light of Christ.  Many have said the anglicized form is Louise.

Líadan

Pronounced: lee-daan

Meaning: Líadan is an Irish name that means “grey lady”. It is derived from the old Irish word for grey, liath. Líadan was a popular name in Ireland during the Middle Ages, but it fell out of use in the early modern period.

It began to be revived in the 19th century and has since become one of the most popular names in Ireland.

Liobhan

Pronounced: lee-o-vawn

Meaning: Liobhan means the beauty of women or beautiful. It derives from the older Irish name Lí Ban which means ‘li’ beauty and ‘ban’ is the Irish for a woman. It was borne by a number of early Irish women saints the most famous is known as Ireland’s Mermaid Saint as Danu partially granted her wish to turn her into a salmon, instead turning her into a mermaid.

Irish Names for Girls Beginning with M

  • Mairead
  • Maebh
  • Muirgheal
  • Muirenn
  • Maire

Mairead, Máiréad or Mairéad

Pronounced: muh-raid

Meaning: Mairead is an Irish name that means “pearl”. It is the Irish version of Margaret. The name Margaret was popularized by Saint Margaret of Scotland, who was the wife of King Malcolm III of Scotland. The name Mairead has been used in Ireland since the 13th century.

Maebh, Maeve, Meabh, Medb, Meadhbh

Pronounced: may-v

Meaning: Maeve is an Irish name that means “intoxicating one, she who makes men drunk”. Many Irish names are steeped in Irish history and mythology, and Maeve is no exception. The name Maeve is derived from the Irish goddess of the same name. In Celtic mythology, Maeve was a warrior queen who led her people to victory in battle in the most famous Irish war. She was known for her strength and beauty, as well as her quick temper. Maeve Binchy is a famous Irish writer.

Today, the name Maeve is still associated with these qualities. It is often given to girls who are seen as strong and independent. Whether you’re looking for a name with deep meaning or simply a beautiful Irish moniker, Maeve is definitely worth considering and we’ve done a detailed guide to the baby name Maeve here.

Muirgheal

Pronounced: mwir-ghel, mwir-en, mahr-eh

Meaning: Muirgheal is an Irish name that means “bright as the sea or knows the sea”. It is derived from the Irish words muir, meaning “sea” and geal, meaning “bright”.

The name Muirgheal is often given to girls born near the sea or with bright blue eyes. It is also a popular choice for girls whose parents have a love of the ocean. It is anglicized as Muriel.

Muirenn, Muireann, Muirne

Pronounced: mwir-ehn, mwir-en

Meaning: Muirenn is an Irish name that means “sea fair”. It is derived from the Irish words Muir, meaning “sea” and eann, meaning “fair or bright”. In the Fenian Cycle of Irish mythology, she was the mother of the famous Fionn Mac Cumhaill.

In other mythology, Muireann was a 6th-century mermaid who was caught by a fisherman in Lough Neagh. He brought her to St Comgall’s church where he baptized and transformed her into a beautiful woman with long golden hair that reached down below her waistline!

Máire, Maire

Pronounced: maw-reh

Meaning: Maire is an Irish name that means “bitter”. It is derived from the Latin word Maria, and is seen as the Irish for Mary which is a reference to the Virgin Mary. As a result, the name Maire is often given to girls who are born on the Feast of the Assumption.

In 19th Century Ireland, Mary was the most popular Irish girl’s name and is seen as the most traditional Irish names. Recently both Maire and Mary have waned in popularity.

Irish Girl Names Beginning with N

  • Niamh

Niamh

Pronounced: nee-uv or nee-iv

Meaning: Niamh is an Irish name that means “bright” or “radiant”. Niamh was the daughter of the sea god Manannan mac Lir and one of the queens of the land of eternal youth, Tir na nOg. Niamh was a fairy woman and was known as Niamh of the Golden Hair. She married Oisin.

The name Niamh has been popular in Ireland for many years and is currently one of the top 100 most popular names for baby girls

Female Irish Names Beginning with O

  • Orlaith

Orlaith, Órfhlaith, Órla, Orlagh

Pronounced: or-lah

Meaning: Orlaith is an Irish name that means “golden princess”. It is derived from the Irish word orlach, meaning “golden”.

In Irish mythology, Orlaith was the sister of Brian Boru, the High King of Ireland. Orlaith is a beautiful name with a rich history and meaning. Parents who are looking for a name that is both unique and full of meaning may want to consider Orlaith for their baby girl.

Female Irish Names Beginning with R

Reidin

Pronounced : ray-deen

Meaning: Reidin started as a pet name for those named Mairead, but has since become a name in its own right. Read is the Irish word for star so it also means little star with ‘in’ always meaning little.

Reidin is a beautiful, unique name for a baby girl. It has a special meaning and is perfect for parents who are looking for something different.

Róisín

Pronounced: r-oh-sheen or row-sheen. In the Ulster region of Ireland, it is pronounced r-osh-een with it making more of an ‘osh’ sound rather than an ‘oh’.

Meaning: Róisín is an Irish name that means “little rose”. It is derived from the Irish word rós, meaning “rose”.

Róisín is a popular name in Ireland and is often given to baby girls born in the month of May. It is also a popular choice for parents who are looking for a name that is both unique and full of meaning. See our full guide to the name Roisin here.

Ríonach  Ríona, Ríoghnach

Pronounced: ree-na

Meaning: Rionach is an Irish name that means “queenly”. It is derived from the Irish word rígain, meaning “queen”.

In Irish legend, Rionach was the wife of the famous Irish King, Niall of the Nine hostages who bore him seven sons and is the forefather of the O Neill dynasties.

Irish Girl Names Beginning with S

  • Sadhbh
  • Saoirse
  • Siobhán
  • Síofra
  • Sile
  • Síne
  • Sinead
  • Sorcha

Sadhbh, Sadbh, Saidhbh

Pronounced: sive (as in five)

Meaning: Sadhbh is an Irish name that means “goodness, sweet” or “virtue”. In Irish mythology, she was the mother of Oisin and wife of Fionn Mac Cumhail. There are many tales of her being turned into a doe to avoid and unwanted advances of Fer Doirich.

Sadhbh was a popular name in Ireland during the Middle Ages, but it fell out of use in the early modern period. It began to be revived in the 19th century and has since become one of the most popular names in Ireland.

Saoirse

Pronounced: seer-sha

Meaning: Saoirse is an Irish name that means “freedom”. It is derived from the Irish word saor, meaning “free”.

Saoirse was a popular name in Ireland during the 1916 Easter Rising and has since become one of the most popular names in Ireland. It is also a popular choice for parents who are looking for a name that is both unique and full of meaning.

Siobhán, Siobhan

Pronounced: shiv-awn or shev-awn, in the Aran Gaeltacht it is pronounced shoo-in

Meaning: Siobhán is an Irish name that means “God is gracious”. It is derived from the Anglo-Norman word Jehanna, so is taken to the Irish form of Joan or Joanne or a feminine form of John or Seán or Eóin.

Siobhán was a popular name in Ireland during the Middle Ages, but it fell out of use in the early modern period. It began to be revived in the 19th century and has since become one of the most popular names in Ireland.

Síofra, Síohmha

Pronounced: shee-frah

Meaning: Síofra is an Irish name that means “elf or fairy”. It is also taken to mean a sprite or a changeling. A changeling is a creature found in folklore and fairy tales. In Irish legend, a changeling is a child that has been left in place of a human child by the fairies.

Síofra is a beautiful, unique name for a baby girl. It has a special meaning and is perfect for parents who are looking for something different.

Sile

Pronounced: shee-leh

Meaning: Sile is an Irish name that means “heaven” or pure and musical. It is taken as the Irish variant of the Latin name Cecilia and the English variant Sheila.

Síne

Pronounced: shee-neh

Meaning: Síne is an Irish name that means “old or wise”. It is derived from the name male name Senán and is generally anglicised as Jane. Connected to the name Sinead.

Sinead

Pronounced: shin-ade

Meaning: Sinead is an Irish name that means “God is gracious”. It is the Irish form of the name Jane or Janet.

Sorcha

Pronounced: sur-khah, soar-aa-ka

Meaning: Sorcha is an Irish name that means “bright or radiant”. It is derived from the old Irish word sorchae meaning brightness. Some have translated this to the English name, Clara.

Irish Girl Names Beginning with U

  • Úna

Úna, Oonagh

Pronounced: oon-ah

Meaning: Úna is an Irish name that means “lamb”, as such it is taken to mean beauty, truth and unity.

Conclusion on girl names with Irish origin

There you have it, 100 beautiful Irish girl’s names. Whether you are looking for a traditional name, a name from Irish history or Irish myths, or just a Celtic word with a wonderful meaning or something more unique, there is sure to be a name on this list that you will love.

Don’t forget to check out our other lists of baby names.

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