The Celts were European tribes who occupied much of Europe north of the Alps in the Iron Age and settled in the British Isles in the fourth to second centuries B.C. Their Celtic languages, including Gaelic, survived the invasions of the Romans, Germanic tribes, and Anglo-Saxons longer in Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. However, Celtic heritage might be celebrated by anyone with ancestors from much of Europe from the Danube to the Rhine and Douro Rivers. Learn the meaning behind the name as you consider what to name your child.
Popular Celtic Baby Names for Girls
These names have Celtic roots or are the forms used in Celtic lands for names from other roots.
Áine
Origin: GaelicPronunciation: AWN-yah or ON-yah.Meaning: RadianceAlternative Spellings & Variations: Anya, Anna, AnneFamous Namesakes: Author and economics professor Aine Seitz McCarthy, actress Áine Ní MhuiríPeak Popularity: In Ireland, Áine ranked at number 32 in 2003 and 103 in 2020. It is uncommon in the U.S.
Aislinn
Origin: GaelicPronunciation: ASH-linMeaning: Dream or visionAlternative Spellings & Variations: Aisling, Aisleyne, Aislin, AshlynFamous Namesakes: Actress Aisling Bea, poet and author Aislinn HunterPeak Popularity: Aislinn ranked 873 in Ireland in 2018. However, Aisling has been a top 100 name in Ireland since 1968. Both Aisling and Aislinn are rare in the U.S., with Aislinn barely cracking the top 1000 in 2015, 2016, 2018, and 2020.
Alys
Origin: Old French, Old GermanMeaning: Noble and dependable personAlternative Spellings & Variations: Alis (Welsh), Ailis (Irish), Aileas (Scottish), Alyce, Alice, Alyssa, AalisFamous Namesakes: Actress Alyssa Milano, author Alys ClarePeak Popularity: Alys is sometimes seen in England and Wales. It ranked 475 in England in 2018. It is uncommon in the U.S showing up as a top 1,000 name only once in 1910 at number 998.
Avalon
Origin: WelshMeaning: AppleAlternative Spellings & Variations: Avallon, AvilionFamous Namesakes: Model Avalon Dawn, DJ Avalon EmersonPeak Popularity: Avalon is an uncommon first name, not ranking in any country.
Boudicca
Origin: Ancient CelticMeaning: VictoryAlternative Spellings & Variations: Boadica, Boadicea, Boudica, VoadiciaFamous Namesakes: Boudicca, queen of the BritonsPeak Popularity: Boudicca is a rare name in the U.S.
Brianna
Origin: CelticMeaning: One who is honorable and nobleAlternative Spellings & Variations: Breanna, Breana, Breanne, Briana, Brianne, Bryana, Bryanna, BryanneFamous Namesakes: Actress Brianna Hildebrand, ice hockey player Brianna Decker, singer Brianna Perry (Lil’ Brianna), video game developer Brianna WuPeak Popularity: Brianna was uncommon in the U.S. until the 1970s. It peaked in the top 20 from 1996 to 2006.
Brighid
Origin: IrishMeaning: Exalted oneAlternative Spellings & Variations: Bridget, Brigid, Brigit, Biddy, Bridie, Ffraid (Welsh)Famous Namesakes: Actress Bridget Fonda, model Bridget Moynahan, Saint Brigid of Kildare (a patron saint of Ireland)Peak Popularity: Brighid is an uncommon name in any country. The variant Bridget was most popular in the U.S. in the 1970s, topping at number 112 in 1973.
Bronwen
Origin: WelshMeaning: Fair and blessed, pure heartAlternative Spellings & Variations: Bronwyn (technically masculine due to-wyn ending), BranwenFamous Namesakes: Author Bronwen Dickey, Olympic water polo player Bronwen KnoxPeak Popularity: Bronwen has not made the top list for any country.
Bryn
Origin: WelshMeaning: HillAlternative Spellings & Variations: Brina, Brynn, Brynne, Brin (Welsh), Brynlee (English)Famous Namesakes: Animation writer Brynne Chandler, television personality Brynne EdelstenPeak Popularity: Bryn has rarely cracked the top 1,000 in the U.S., but ranked 743 in 2011, while Brynlee has new popularity and ranked 191 in 2020.
Caitlin
Origin: IrishMeaning: PurityAlternative Spellings & Variations: Caitlyn, Catherine, Cathleen (Irish), Kathleen (Irish), Kaitlin, Kaitlyn, Kaitlynn, Katelyn, Caetlin, Caitriona, Catriona (Scottish), Catrina (Scottish), Catrin (Welsh), Cadi (Welsh), Catarina (Galician)Famous Namesakes: Television personality and former Olympic athlete Caitlyn Jenner, author Caitlin MatthewsPeak Popularity: Caitlin was most popular in the U.S. in the 1980s and 1990s, peaking at number 44 in 1988. It dropped out of the top 1,000 in 2016.
Caoimhe
Origin: GaelicPronunciation: KEE-va or KWEE-vaMeaning: Beauty and gentlenessAlternative Spellings & Variations: Keavy, Keeva, KivaFamous Namesakes: Television personality Caoimhe Guilfoyle, Irish peace activist Caoimhe Butterfly, actress Caoimhe JuddPeak Popularity: Caoimhe is very popular in Ireland. It was number 27 in 2020.
Cerridwen
Origin: WelshPronunciation: keh-RID-wehnMeaning: Poetry, combined with woman or fair.Alternative Spellings & Variations: Ceridwen, Cerridwyn, KerridwenFamous Namesakes: Mythic figure CeridwenPeak Popularity: Cerridwen is an uncommon name in every country.
Deidre
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Sorrow and longing, young girlAlternative Spellings & Variations: Deirdre, Deidra, Deitra, Derdriu, DedeFamous Namesakes: Actress Deidre Hall, author and psychologist Deirdre Barrett, Miss America 2005 Deidre DownsPeak Popularity: Deirdre and Deidre were most common in the U.S. in the 1960s, with Deirdre ranking as high as 333 in 1961. Both fell out of the top 1,000 in the early 1990s.
Doireann
Origin: IrishPronunciation: Dirren, DOR-en, or Dawr-EENMeaning: Brooding and sorrowful or fruitful and fertileAlternative Spellings & Variations: Doirean, Doreen, Daireann, DoirendFamous Namesakes: Wiccan liturgical writer Doreen Valiente, singer Doreen TaylorPeak Popularity: Doireann is an uncommon name in the U.S., but it has been gaining popularity in Ireland since the 1970’s. It was number 115 in Ireland in 2020. Doreen was most popular in the U.S. in the late 1950s but fell out of the top 1,000 in 1980.
Eithne
Origin: IrishPronunciation: EN-yah, ET-nah, ETH-nahMeaning: Kernel, grainAlternative Spellings & Variations: Aithne, Edna, Ena, Enya, EtnaFamous Namesakes: Singer Eithne Pádraigín Ní Bhraonáin (Enya), Author Edna Ferber, poet Edna St. Vincent MillayPeak Popularity: Eithne ranked 119 in Ireland in 1966, but it has decreased in popularity since. It is uncommon in the U.S. In the U.S., Edna was a top 20 girl names from 1889 to 1917. It fell out of the top 1,000 in 1992.
Enid
Origin: WelshMeaning: Soul or lifeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Enaid, Enyd, EniddFamous Namesakes: Author Enid Blyton, sculptor Enid YandellPeak Popularity: Enid was most popular in the 1920s in the U.S. It fell out of the top 1,000 in 1955. It made the top 1,000 in England and Wales in 2015 at 984 and 2029 at 854.
Erin
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Child of IrelandAlternative Spellings & Variations: Eireann, Aryn, Eirinn, Eryn, Eriu, Eirwynn, IorwynFamous Namesakes: Environmental activist Erin Brockovich, actress Erin Moran, television personality Erin AndrewsPeak Popularity: Erin was in the top 20 names for girls in the U.S. in the early 1980s. In 2020, it ranked 520 in the United States, 41 in Ireland, and 54 in England and Wales in 2019.
Fiona
Origin: GaelicMeaning: White or fairAlternative Spellings & Variations: Fyona, Fionna, FionhaFamous Namesakes: Singer Fiona ApplePeak Popularity: While Fiona has long been common in Scotland and Ireland, it was rare in the U.S. until 1990. In 2020, it ranked 296 in the U.S.
Fionnula
Origin: GaelicPronunciation: fin- NEW - lahMeaning: White of shoulderAlternative Spellings & Variations: Fionnuala, Fionnaghuala, NualaFamous Namesakes: Actress Fionnula FlanaganPeak Popularity: Fionnula is not a common name in any country.
Glenys
Origin: WelshMeaning: Clean, pure, and holyAlternative Spellings & Variations: Glynis, Glennis, GlynnisFamous Namesakes: Actress Glynnis O’ConnorPeak Popularity: Glynis has rarely broken into the top 1,000 in the U.S., the last time being in the 1960s.
Grainne
Origin: GaelicPronunciation: GRON-yahMeaning: GrainAlternative Spellings & Variations: Grania, GranyaFamous Namesakes: Musician Grainne Duffy, athlete Gráinne MurphyPeak Popularity: As of 2018, Grainne has never reached the top 1,000 in the U.S. In Ireland, Grainne is much more popular where it held a rank of 37 in 1989.
Gwyneth
Origin: WelshMeaning: White, fair, blessedAlternative Spellings & Variations: Gweneth, Gwenneth, Gwynedd, Gwenyth, GwenithFamous Namesakes: Actress Gwyneth Paltrow, singer Gwen StefaniPeak Popularity: In the U.S., Gwyneth only rarely breaks into the top 1,000.
Gwendolyn
Origin: WelshMeaning: White ringAlternative Spellings & Variations: Gwendoline, Gwendolen, GwenFamous Namesakes: Journalist Gwendolyn Ifill, singer Gwendolyn SanfordPeak Popularity: In the U.S., Gwendolyn was most popular in the 1950s. It ranked 112 in 1951 and 1953. It was number 377 in 2020.
Igraine
Origin: WelshMeaning: UnknownAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ygraine, Igrayne, Igerna, EigyrFamous Namesakes: Igraine in Arthurian legendPeak Popularity: Igraine has never been in the top 1000 girl names in the U.S.
Iona
Origin: Scottish GaelicMeaning: IslandAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ione, Eyona, IonahFamous Namesakes: Musician Iona BrownPeak Popularity: Iona was most popular in the U.S. before 1947. It is a more common name in England and Wales ranking 199 in 2000 and 399 in 2020.
Isolde
Origin: CelticMeaning: Fair and lovelyAlternative Spellings & Variations: Iseulde, YseultFamous Namesakes: Violinist Isolde MengesPeak Popularity: Isolde has never been in the top 1,000 girl names in the U.S.
Keely
Origin: IrishMeaning: SlenderAlternative Spellings & Variations: Caoladhe, KeeleyFamous Namesakes: Journalist and television personality Keely Shaye Smith, Olympic skier Keely KelleherPeak Popularity: In 1997, Keely placed at number 455 in the U.S. In 1996, it was 282 in England and Wales, and 279 in Ireland.
Kiera
Origin: Irish Meaning: Black Alternative Spellings & Variations: Ciara, Kiara, Keira, Kirya, Kera, Kieran Famous Namesakes: Actress Keira Knightley, Saint Ciara Peak Popularity: Keira rose sharply in the U.S. in the 2000s, with a peak at 110 in 2006. Ciara was most popular in 2005 when it ranked around 149.
Kylie
Origin: GaelicMeaning: StraitAlternative Spellings & Variations: Kyleigh, Kiley, Kylee, KilieFamous Namesakes: Singer Kylie Minogue, model Kylie JennerPeak Popularity: In the U.S., Kylie had a high point at 49 in 2004.
Léan
Origin: GreekPronunciation: LAYNMeaning: TorchbearerAlternative Spellings & Variations: Lane, Laine, Leine, Lainie, HelenFamous Namesakes: Actress and singer Lainie KazanPeak Popularity: Léan does not make it into the top 1,000 in the U.S.
Liadain
Origin: Irish GaelicMeaning: Gray ladyAlternative Spellings & Variations: Liadan, LiadinFamous Namesakes: Designer Liadain Aiken, artist Liadain Warwick SmithPeak Popularity: Liadain does not make it into the top 1,000 in the U.S.
Luighseach
Origin: Irish GaelicPronunciation: LEE-sak or LOO-sehMeaning: Bringer of lightAlternative Spellings & Variations: Luigsech, Luiseach, LucyPeak Popularity: This name is uncommon.
Maeve
Origin: GaelicPronunciation: MAYVMeaning: Entrancing or intoxicatingAlternative Spellings & Variations: Meabh, Meadhbh, Mave, Meave, MedbFamous Namesakes: Author Maeve Binchy, actress Maeve QuinlanPeak Popularity: Maeve is popular in Ireland. It ranked 80 in 1964 and 99 in 2020. In the U.S, it was uncommon before the late 1990s but is climbing in popularity. It reached 173 in 2020.
Maureen
Origin: Irish, from LatinMeaning: Star of the seaAlternative Spellings & Variations: Mairenn, Mairin, Maurine, Murainn, MoireanFamous Namesakes: Actress Maureen Stapleton, author Maureen JenningsPeak Popularity: Maureen was most popular in the U.S. in the 1950s when it was in the top 100. It fell out of the top 1,000 in 1998.
Moira
Origin: Irish, from LatinMeaning: Star of the seaAlternative Spellings & Variations: Maire, Moire, Moyra, Maura, Morag (Scottish), Mair, Mairwen (Welsh), MariFamous Namesakes: Actress Moira Kelly, ballerina Moira ShearerPeak Popularity: Moira only rarely breaks into the top 1,000 names for girls for the U.S. Maura had some popularity in the 1960s, making it to the top 500.
Morgan
Origin: Gaelic Meaning: Born of the sea Alternative Spellings & Variations: Muirgen, Morgen, Muirin Famous Namesakes: Actress Morgan Fairchild, soccer player Morgan Brian Peak Popularity: As a girl name, Morgan was in the top 30 from 1994 to 2003 in the U.S. It also has steady popularity as a boy name, ranking in the top 1,000 for over a hundred years.
Niamh
Origin: IrishPronunciation: NEEVMeaning: Beauty and brightnessAlternative Spellings & Variations: Neve, NiaFamous Namesakes: Actress Neve CampbellPeak Popularity: Niamh is uncommon in the U.S, but very popular in Ireland where it was number 2 in 1993, 1994, and 1995. It is also popular in England, Scotland, and Wales.
Nimue
Origin: Possibly GreekPronunciation: NIM-oo-ayMeaning: RemembranceAlternative Spellings & Variations: Nymue, Nimueh, Niniane, Ninniane, Ninianne, Niviene, Nyneve, NinevePeak Popularity: Nimue is a unique name.
Onora
Origin: Irish form of Late Roman nameMeaning: Honorable, regalAlternative Spellings & Variations: Noirin, Nora, Norah, Noreen, NorenePeak Popularity: Onora is uncommon. But, Nora and Norah are climbing steeply in popularity in the U.S. with Nora at number 30 in 2020. That same year, Nora was number 126 in Ireland and 160 in England and Wales as of 2019.
Reagan
Origin: CelticMeaning: Little ruler or kingAlternative Spellings & Variations: Reaghann, ReganFamous Namesakes: Actress Reagan Gomez-PrestonPeak Popularity: Reagan is climbing in popularity as a girl name in the U.S. over the past 20 years. It had a new high of 97 in 2016. Regan and Reagan are also used as a boy name with Reagan entering the top 1,000 in 1996.
Rhiannon
Origin: CelticMeaning: Great queenAlternative Spellings & Variations: Rhianon, Riannon, Reannon, Riannon, Rhianna, RigantonaFamous Namesakes: Actress Rhiannon Fish, video game designer Rhianna PratchettPeak Popularity: Due to the Fleetwood Mac song “Rhiannon,” the name was popular in the U.S. from 1976 to 2006, usually ranking around 600.
Rhona
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Rough islandAlternative Spellings & Variations: RonaFamous Namesakes: Actress Rhona Mitra, Olympic curler Rhona MartinPeak Popularity: Rhona only made the top 1,000 girl list in the U.S. one year, in 1951.
Roisin
Origin: IrishPronunciation: ROW-sheen or ROSH-sheenMeaning: Little roseAlternative Spellings & Variations: Roisinn, RosheenFamous Namesakes: Comedian Roisin ConatyPeak Popularity: Roisin is a popular name in Ireland, but it’s a rare name in the U.S.
Rowena
Origin: Possibly WelshMeaning: Slender and fairAlternative Spellings & Variations: RowinaFamous Namesakes: Artist Rowena Morrill, actress Rowena WallacePeak Popularity: Rowena was most popular in the U.S. over a century ago. It has not been in the top 1,000 names since 1963.
Saoirse
Origin: IrishPronunciation: SEER-shaMeaning: Freedom, independenceAlternative Spellings & Variations: Saoyrse, Seersha, Sheersha, SairshaFamous Namesakes: Actress Saoirse RonanPeak Popularity: Saoirse is an uncommon name in the U.S. In Ireland, it’s a very popular name having been in the top 50 since 1997 with a rank of 20 in 2020.
Shannon
Origin: IrishMeaning: Old, ancientAlternative Spellings & Variations: Shana, Shanna, Shannen, Shanon, Shannah, Shannan, ShannynFamous Namesakes: Actress Shannen DohertyPeak Popularity: In the U.S., Shannon was most popular as a girl name in the 1970s and 1980s, reaching the top 20. It fell out of the top 1,000 in 2014. In Ireland, it was most popular in 1995 reaching a rank of 11. It also ranked 11 in England in 1996.
Siobhan
Origin: Irish form of Norman French namePronunciation: Shiv-AWNMeaning: The grace of GodAlternative Spellings & Variations: Chevonne, Shavonne, Shevaun, Shevon, SineFamous Namesakes: Singer Siobhan Fahey, actress Siobhan FinneranPeak Popularity: Siobhan was a top 1,000 name in the U.S. from 1979 to 1987. It peaked in popularity in England and Wales in 1996 at number 138. It has been very popular in Ireland reaching number 15 in 1971. But, after a long run in the top 100, it began to decline in 2003.
Teagan
Origin: IrishMeaning: From surname Tadhg, meaning poetAlternative Spellings & Variations: Taegan, Teaghan, Teegan, TeagonFamous Namesakes: Bodybuilder and writer Teagan ClivePeak Popularity: Teagan entered the top 1,000 girl names in the U.S. in 1999 and reached a high at 150 in 2016. It was number 143 in Ireland in 2013.
Tegan
Origin: WelshMeaning: From teg meaning fairAlternative Spellings & Variations: Teegan, Tegen, TegonFamous Namesakes: Actress Tegan MossPeak Popularity: Tegan entered the top 1,000 girl names in the U.S. in 2010.
Una
Origin: IrishMeaning: LambAlternative Spellings & Variations: Oona, Oonaugh, UnnaFamous Namesakes: Actress Una StubbsPeak Popularity: Una was most popular in the U.S. a century ago when it ranked around 500. It dropped out of the top 1,000 in 1942.
Popular Celtic Baby Names for Boys
These names come from Gaelic, Welsh, Scottish, and Irish roots or are those commonly used for Celtic equivalents for English names.
Aidan
Origin: Old Irish Meaning: Small fire Alternative Spellings & Variations: Aeden, Aiden, Aodhan, Aydan, Ayden, Edan Famous Namesakes: Actor Aidan Quinn, singer Aidan James Peak Popularity: Aidan was uncommon in the U.S. until the 1990s and rose to number 39 in 2003. It has been falling since then. It is a top 100 name in Ireland ranking 70 in 2020.
Angus
Origin: Old Irish, Scottish GaelicMeaning: One strengthAlternative Spellings & Variations: Aonghas, Aonghus, Aengus, Gus, Mac Og, InnesFamous Namesakes: Musician Angus Young, U.S. Senator Angus King, actor Angus T. JonesPeak Popularity: Angus hasn’t been in the top 1,000 in the U.S. since 1948. It is most popular in Scotland.
Barry
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Fair hairAlternative Spellings & Variations: Bairre, Barrie, Barry, Barra, Berry, Baz, Bazza, BarrfindFamous Namesakes: Politician Barry Goldwater, baseball player Barry Bonds, musician Barry Manilow, filmmaker Baz LuhrmannPeak Popularity: Barry was in the top 100 names for boys in the U.S. from 1941 to 1969, but fell out of the top 1,000 in 2005. It was a top 100 name in Ireland until 2001. It ranked 459 in 2020.
Bedwyr
Origin: WelshMeaning: UnknownAlternative Spellings & Variations: BedivereFamous Namesakes: Legendary Sir BediverePeak Popularity: Bedwyr is an uncommon name.
Blaine
Origin: GaelicMeaning: YellowAlternative Spellings & Variations: Blaan, Blain, Blayne, BlaynFamous Namesakes: Football player Blaine Gabbert, astronaut L. Blaine Hammond, U.S. Representative Blaine LuetkemeyerPeak Popularity: Blaine has been consistently ranked around 500 in the U.S. for the past 100 years.
Braden
Origin: Irish GaelicMeaning: SalmonAlternative Spellings & Variations: Braeden, Bradan, Brayden, BraydonFamous Namesakes: Baseball player Braden LooperPeak Popularity: Braden was most popular in the U.S. in the early 2000s, rising to 133 in 2005.
Brian
Origin: CelticMeaning: High nobleAlternative Spellings & Variations: Bryan, Bryon, Bryant, Briant, Briand, BrionFamous Namesakes: Former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, musician Brian Wilson, filmmaker Brian De PalmaPeak Popularity: Brian was a the top 10 boy name in the U.S. in the 1970s. It dropped to 270 in 2020.
Caedmon
Origin: CelticPronunciation: KAD-muhnMeaning: Wise warriorAlternative Spellings & Variations: CadmonFamous Namesakes: Saint CaedmonPeak Popularity: Caedmon is an uncommon name.
Caradoc
Origin: WelshMeaning: Dearly lovedAlternative Spellings & Variations: Caradog, Cerdic, CedricFamous Namesakes: Saint CaradocPeak Popularity: Caradoc is an uncommon name. The variant Cedric was most popular in the U.S. in the 1970s and 1980s.
Caden
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Spirit of battleAlternative Spellings & Variations: Caiden, Cayden, Kaden, Kaeden, Kaiden, KaydenFamous Namesakes: Actor Cayden BoydPeak Popularity: Caden was uncommon in the U.S. until the 1990s and it reached the top 100 in 2005 through 2008.
Coinneach
Origin: GaelicPronunciation: CON-ak or CON-yachMeaning: Handsome oneAlternative Spellings & Variations: Kenneth, Cainneach, CináedFamous Namesakes: King Cináed of Scotland, actor Kenneth Branagh, author Kenneth GrahamePeak Popularity: Coinneach is an uncommon name in every country. Kenneth was a top 20 name in the U.S. from 1924 to 1964, but it remained in the top 100 until 2002.
Cormac
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Son of a charioteerAlternative Spellings & Variations: CormagFamous Namesakes: Author Cormac McCarthyPeak Popularity: Cormac is an uncommon name in the U.S., but a popular name in Ireland.
Cuchulain
Origin: IrishPronunciation: Koo-HULL-un or Koo-KULL-unMeaning: Hound of CulannAlternative Spellings & Variations: CuchulainnFamous Namesakes: Mythical CuchulainPeak Popularity: Cuchulain is an uncommon name.
Desmond
Origin: IrishMeaning: One from South MunsterAlternative Spellings & Variations: Des, DeziFamous Namesakes: Nobel Prize winner Desmond Tutu, Medal of Honor recipient Desmond Doss, actor Desmond LlewelynPeak Popularity: Desmond has ranked around 400 in the U.S. since the 1970s.
Domhnall
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Ruler of the worldAlternative Spellings & Variations: Domhnall, Domnall, Dom, Donal, Donnal, Don, DonaldFamous Namesakes: Scottish King Domnall, Irish High King Domhnall, actor Domhnall GleesonPeak Popularity: Domhnall is an uncommon name in modern times. In the U.S, the English variant Donald was in the top 10 in the 1930s and remained in the top 100 until 1991.
Douglas
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Dark waterAlternative Spellings & Variations: Douglass, Dubhghlas, DougFamous Namesakes: General Douglas MacArthur, author Douglas AdamsPeak Popularity: Douglas was most popular in the U.S. in the 1940s, reaching 23 in 1942. It remained in the top 100 until 1990.
Duncan
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Dark-skinned warriorAlternative Spellings & Variations: Donnchadh, Donnchad, Donagh, Donnacha, DonnchaFamous Namesakes: Former U.S. Representative Duncan Hunter, filmmaker Duncan Jones, singer and actor Duncan JamesPeak Popularity: Duncan was most popular in the U.S. in the 1990s, reaching number 386.
Dylan
Origin: WelshMeaning: Great tideAlternative Spellings & Variations: Dillan, Dillon, DylenFamous Namesakes: Poet Dylan Thomas, actor Dylan McDermottPeak Popularity: Changed Peak Popularity: Dylan is a very popular name. It was in the top 50 boy names in the U.S. from 1992 to 2020. It has also been in the top 100 in England and Wales since 1998, and in the top 30 in Ireland since 1994.
Eoghan
Origin: IrishPronunciation: OH-inMeaning: Born from the yew treeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Eaghan, Egan, Eogan, Euan, Ewan, Ewen, OwenFamous Namesakes: Actor Ewan McGregor, architect Ewan ChristianPeak Popularity: Owen has been in the top 100 names for boys in the U.S. since 2002, reaching a high of 23 in 2016. Eoghan was in the top 100 in Ireland from 1980 to 2020.
Farrell
Origin: GaelicMeaning: One who is brave, courageousAlternative Spellings & Variations: Fergal, FearghalFamous Namesakes: Trade unionist Farrell Dobbs, Irish politician Fearghal McKinneyPeak Popularity: Farrell is an uncommon first name.
Fergus
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Strong, vigorousAlternative Spellings & Variations: Fearghas, FearghusFamous Namesakes: Historian Fergus Millar, aviation pioneer Fergus McMaster (founder of Qantas)Peak Popularity: Fergus is an unusual first name in the U.S. It is more commonly seen in Scotland, Ireland, and England.
Finn
Origin: IrishMeaning: Fair, blondAlternative Spellings & Variations: Fionn, Fion, Fynn, Fionan, Finnbar, and Finnobar.Famous Namesakes: Actor Finn Jones, businessman Finn M. W. CaspersenPeak Popularity: Finn is trendy. It entered the top 1,000 names in the U.S. in 2000 and climbed sharply to 178 in 2020. It was number 86 in England and Wales in 2019, and number 6 in Ireland in 2020.
Gallagher
Origin: Irish GaelicMeaning: Eager helperAlternative Spellings & Variations: Gallchobhar, GallachobhairFamous Namesakes: Comedian GallagherPeak Popularity: Gallagher is an uncommon first name in the U.S.
Gavin
Origin: WelshMeaning: Little hawkAlternative Spellings & Variations: Gawain, Walganus, GauvainFamous Namesakes: California Governor Gavin Newsom, singer Gavin RossdalePeak Popularity: Gavin reached a high of 30 in the U.S. in 2008.
Gordon
Origin: ScottishMeaning: Spacious fortAlternative Spellings & Variations: Gordan, Gorden, GordieFamous Namesakes: Former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, ice hockey player Gordie Howe, chef Gordon RamsayPeak Popularity: Gordon was in the top 100 names for boys in the U.S. from 1911 to 1943.
Graham
Origin: ScottishMeaning: Gray or gravelly homeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Graeme, Gram, GranthamFamous Namesakes: Author Graham Greene, racecar driver Graham Hill, actor Graham ChapmanPeak Popularity: Graham reached a rank of 176 in the U.S. in 2015.
Ian
Origin: Scottish from HebrewMeaning: God is graciousAlternative Spellings & Variations: Eion, Iain, Ionn, Evan, Ifan, Ioan, IwanFamous Namesakes: Author Ian Fleming, actor Ian McKellenPeak Popularity: Ian became a top 100 name in the U.S. in 1982. It was number 83 in 2020.
Keane
Origin: GaelicMeaning: AncientAlternative Spellings & Variations: Kean, Keene, Keenan, Keenen, CianFamous Namesakes: Actor Keenen Ivory Wayans, football player Keenan McCardellPeak Popularity: Keane is uncommon in the U.S. Keenan is the most popular form, ranking as high as 354 in 1997.
Keith
Origin: GaelicMeaning: One who dwells in the forestAlternative Spellings & Variations: Keeth, Keyth, KeathFamous Namesakes: Musician Keith Richards, television commentator Keith Olbermann, Actor Keith CarradinePeak Popularity: Keith was a top 50 boy name in the U.S. from 1952 to 1978.
Kevin
Origin: IrishMeaning: Gentle, handsomeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Caoimhin, Coemgein, Kevan, Kevyn, CefinFamous Namesakes: Basketball player Kevin Durant, actor Kevin Costner, musician Kevin JonasPeak Popularity: Kevin was in the top 20 names for boys in the U.S. from 1957 to 1979 but fell out of the top 100 in 2018.
Kelvin
Origin: ScottishMeaning: From near the riverAlternative Spellings & Variations: Kelvan, Kelvyn, KelwinFamous Namesakes: Mixed martial artist Kelvin Gastelum, newspaper editor Kelvin MacKenziePeak Popularity: Kelvin ranked in the top 250 names in the U.S. in the 1960s.
Laisren
Origin: IrishMeaning: FlameAlternative Spellings & Variations: Laisrian, Laserian, LasairianFamous Namesakes: Saint LaisrenPeak Popularity: Laisren has never made it to the top 1,000 in the U.S.
Lee
Origin: Old EnglishMeaning: Clearing, pastureAlternative Spellings & Variations: LeighFamous Namesakes: Actor Lee Marvin, writer Lee MartinPeak Popularity: Lee was most popular as a boy name in the U.S. from the 1880s through 1955, when it fell out of the top 100.
Llyr
Origin: WelshPronunciation: LEERMeaning: The seaAlternative Spellings & Variations: Lear, Lir, Leer, LeirFamous Namesakes: Legendary King Leir of the BritonsPeak Popularity: Llyr is an uncommon name.
Lugh
Origin: CelticPronunciation: LOOMeaning: LightAlternative Spellings & Variations: Lugus, Lleu, Lugos, LlewFamous Namesakes: Mythical Lleu Llaw GyffesPeak Popularity: Lugh is an uncommon name.
Maddox
Origin: WelshMeaning: Benevolent, compassionate or son of MadocAlternative Spellings & Variations: Madoc, MadogFamous Namesakes: Celebrity child Maddox Jolie-PittPeak Popularity: Maddox was a rare first name in the U.S. until 2003. It rose to number 170 in 2020.
Malcolm
Origin: ScottishMeaning: One who serves St. ColumbaAlternative Spellings & Variations: Malcom, Máel Coluim, MalFamous Namesakes: Scottish Kings, civil rights activist Malcolm X, actor Malcolm McDowell, businessman Malcolm ForbesPeak Popularity: Malcolm was in the top 250 names for boys in the U.S. in the 1990s.
Mervin
Origin: WelshMeaning: Marrow famous or friend of the seaAlternative Spellings & Variations: Mervyn, Merfyn, MervFamous Namesakes: Entertainer Merv Griffin, Medal of Honor recipient Mervyn S. Bennion, filmmaker Mervyn LeRoyPeak Popularity: In the U.S., Mervin was most popular in the 1920s and 1930s.
Niall
Origin: GaelicPronunciation: NYE-al or NEELMeaning: Champion or cloudAlternative Spellings & Variations: Neil, Neal, Nigel, Nyle, NileFamous Namesakes: Historian Niall Ferguson, singer Niall Horan, actor Neil Patrick HarrisPeak Popularity: Niall is popular in England and Ireland, but uncommon in the U.S. Neil is more commonly seen in the U.S. where it was a consistent top 300 name from the 1912 until 1992.
Owen
Origin: Welsh Meaning: Young fighter or born into nobility Alternative Spellings & Variations: Owain, Owien Famous Namesakes: Actor Owen Wilson, playwright Owen Davis Peak Popularity: Owen is skyrocketing in popularity in the U.S since the late 1990s. It reached a rank of 22 in 2020.
Patrick
Origin: LatinMeaning: NoblemanAlternative Spellings & Variations: Padraic, Padraig, PaddyFamous Namesakes: Basketball player Patrick Ewing, actor Patrick Stewart, U.S. Senator Patrick LeahyPeak Popularity: Patrick is very popular name. It was a top 50 boy name in the U.S. from 1948 to 1997. In 2019, it ranked 120 in England and Wales. In 2020, it ranked 205 in the U.S. and 22 in Ireland.
Riordan
Origin: GaelicPronunciation: REER-denMeaning: Royal poetAlternative Spellings & Variations: Rearden, RórdánFamous Namesakes: Political scientist Riordan RoettPeak Popularity: Riordan is an uncommon first name.
Ronald
Origin: Old NorseMeaning: Advisor to the rulerAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ranald, Raghnall (Scottish), Rheinallt (Welsh)Famous Namesakes: Former U.S. President Ronald Reagan, filmmaker Ron HowardPeak Popularity: Ronald was a top 20 name in the U.S. from 1932 to 1958.
Rowan
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Red hairAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ruadhan, RowanneFamous Namesakes: Actor Rowan Atkinson (“Mr. Bean”)Peak Popularity: Rowan debuted on the U.S. top 1,000 list of boy names in 1999 and rose quickly to number 113 in 2020. It ranked 82 in England in 2019.
Roy
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Red or red hairAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ruadh, RoyceFamous Namesakes: Singer Roy Rogers, actor Roy Scheider, musician Roy OrbisonPeak Popularity: Roy was most popular in the U.S. during the first half of the 20th century when it ranked in the top 50. It had declined to 574 in 2020.
Seamus
Origin: GaelicPronunciation: SHAY-musMeaning: Form of James meaning the one who comes afterAlternative Spellings & Variations: Shamus, Sheamus, SéamasFamous Namesakes: Physicist and inventor Seamus Blackley, actor Seamus Dever, Nobel Laureate poet Seamus HeaneyPeak Popularity: Seamus broke into the top 1,000 names in the U.S. in 1995 and reached a peak at 735 in 2003. It is a more popular name in Ireland.
Sean
Origin: HebrewMeaning: The grace of GodAlternative Spellings & Variations: Shawn, Shaun, Sian, Eoin, ShaneFamous Namesakes: Actor Sean Connery, musician Sean Combs, wrestler Sean WaltmanPeak Popularity: Sean was in the top 50 names for boys in the U.S. from 1966 to 1998. It was a top 10 name in Ireland from 1990 to 2017.
Tiernan
Origin: GaelicMeaning: Little lordAlternative Spellings & Variations: Tiarnan, Tigernan, TighearnanFamous Namesakes: Actor Tiernan Jones, athlete Tiarnán MulvennaPeak Popularity: Tiernan is uncommon in the U.S. but relatively common in Northern Ireland.
Trevor
Origin: Welsh and Irish GaelicMeaning: Big village (Welsh), industrious, prudent (Gaelic)Alternative Spellings & Variations: Trefor, Trev, TreabharFamous Namesakes: Singer Trevor “Busta Rhymes” Smith, comedian Trevor Noah, actor Trevor HowardPeak Popularity: Trevor was in the top 100 names for boys in the U.S. from 1986 to 2003.
Wynn
Origin: WelshMeaning: FairAlternative Spellings & Variations: Wyn, WynneFamous Namesakes: Photographer Wynn BullockPeak Popularity: Wynn is an uncommon name.
