Irish Names Database – Authentic Collection of Traditional and Modern Irish First Names

Irish Names Database - Essential Details and Key Features

When was the data collected?

August 2025

In which file format is the data provided?

Excel

Free sample

What data is included?

490Given Names

490Gender Informations

Up-to-date and carefully verified data

Company-wide unlimited usage period

No waiting, immediate access after purchase

Comprehensive Irish Names Database for Your Projects and Applications

Our extensive Irish names database provides you with 490 carefully curated Irish first names, each classified by gender to support your diverse project requirements. This comprehensive collection includes traditional Gaelic Irish names with authentic spellings alongside modern Irish variations, offering male names, female names, and unisex options. The database is delivered in Excel format, making it easy to filter, sort, and integrate into CRM systems, marketing tools, databases, or any other application requiring authentic Irish name data.

The database contains two essential fields: the Irish first name (including traditional Gaelic spellings with accent marks) and gender classification (male, female, or unisex). This structured approach enables precise data filtering and targeted usage for your specific needs, whether you're developing applications, conducting genealogical research, or personalizing content for Irish audiences.

For detailed insights into the database structure and content distribution, refer to the following overview:

Why Purchase Our Irish Names Database Instead of Manual Research?

Compiling a comprehensive collection of authentic Irish names requires extensive research across Gaelic linguistics, Irish cultural heritage, and traditional naming conventions. Our ready-to-use Irish names database eliminates this time-intensive process and provides immediate access to professionally curated data.

• Significant time savings: Avoid weeks of manual research across Irish genealogical records, Gaelic dictionaries, and cultural heritage sources
• Authentic Gaelic spellings: Names include traditional Irish spellings with proper accent marks (fadas) and cultural accuracy
• Gender precision: Each Irish name includes accurate gender classification, including unisex options common in Irish tradition
• Ready-to-use format: Excel format enables immediate integration into your existing workflows and systems
• Cultural authenticity: Names are validated through Irish cultural sources to ensure proper pronunciation and spelling
• Comprehensive coverage: Includes both ancient Gaelic names and modern Irish variations used today
• Historical accuracy: Names reflect genuine Irish naming traditions spanning centuries of heritage
• Cost-effective solution: Eliminate research costs and reduce project timelines significantly

Useful Information and Frequently Asked Questions

What does the "O" mean in Irish names?

The "O'" prefix in Irish names means "descendant of" or "grandson of" in Gaelic. For example, O'Sullivan means "descendant of Sullivan," and O'Connor means "descendant of Connor." This patronymic system was used to indicate family lineage and clan membership. The apostrophe represents the Gaelic word "ua" (meaning descendant), which was anglicized to "O'" during English colonization. Many Irish families dropped the "O'" during periods of English oppression but have since reclaimed it as a mark of Irish heritage.

What are Irish boy names?

Irish male names often reflect strength, nobility, and connection to nature or Celtic mythology. Traditional Irish boy names include Cian (meaning "ancient"), Oisín (meaning "little deer"), Darragh (meaning "oak tree"), and Ruairí (meaning "red-haired king"). Popular modern Irish boy names include Liam, Aiden, Connor, and Sean. Many Irish male names have both traditional Gaelic spellings and anglicized versions, such as Pádraig (Patrick) or Seán (John).

What are Irish girl names?

Irish female names frequently celebrate beauty, grace, and Celtic heritage. Traditional Irish girl names include Áine (meaning "brightness"), Niamh (meaning "bright" or "radiant"), Síle (meaning "blind" but associated with Saint Cecilia), and Gráinne (meaning "grain goddess"). Popular modern Irish girl names include Aoife, Ciara, Maeve, and Fiona. Many Irish female names honor Celtic goddesses, saints, or natural elements, reflecting Ireland's deep spiritual and cultural traditions.

Fascinating Facts About Irish Names and Celtic Naming Heritage

Irish naming traditions reflect over 2,000 years of Celtic culture and heritage. The Irish language (Gaeilge) uses accent marks called "fadas" that completely change pronunciation and meaning - for instance, "Áine" versus "Aine" are pronounced differently. Many Irish names have mythological origins, with names like Brigid honoring the Celtic goddess of fire and poetry. The tradition of using patronymic surnames (Mac/Mc meaning "son of" and O' meaning "descendant of") created some of the world's most recognizable surname patterns. Interestingly, during the Penal Laws (1695-1829), many Irish families were forced to anglicize their names, leading to creative translations - for example, Mac Gabhann became Smith (both meaning "blacksmith"). Today, there's a strong revival of traditional Irish names, with parents choosing authentic Gaelic spellings to honor their heritage. Some Irish names are considered unisex, like Ailbhe or Riley, reflecting ancient Celtic naming flexibility that predated rigid gender classifications.