20 beautiful Gaelic baby names for your little one PLUS how to pronounce them!

Inspired by Ireland, these names are sure to make your little one stand out from the crowd.

There is a certain romance associated with Gaelic and Celtic baby names. Almost musical sounding, these beautiful names have a timeless quality that makes them a popular for modern parents searching for unique baby names.

If you have Irish, Scottish, or Welsh heritage, choosing a Gaelic name is a wonderful way to celebrate your ancestry. These names are deeply rooted in mythology, history, and tradition, ensuring a meaningful choice for your little one.

We’ve rounded up some of the most popular Gaelic baby names of recent times, along with their meanings and pronunciations, to help you find the perfect name for your baby.

Why choose a Gaelic baby name?

Gaelic baby names carry a deep sense of tradition and culture. They are often linked to Celtic mythology, ancient legends, and powerful historical figures. Many Gaelic names have rich meanings related to nature, strength, wisdom, and beauty, making them an excellent choice for parents who want a name with depth and history.

Additionally, while some Gaelic names may be less familiar outside of Ireland and Scotland, their unique spellings and pronunciations add to their charm and individuality. Choosing a Gaelic name ensures your child will have a distinctive name with a story to tell.

Famous Gaelic people

Many well-known figures have Gaelic names, further popularising these beautiful choices. Here are a few celebrities and famous individuals who carry Gaelic names:

• Saoirse Ronan – The award-winning Irish actress has brought global attention to her unique and traditional Gaelic name, Saoirse, meaning ‘freedom.’
• Sinéad O’Connor – The legendary Irish singer-songwriter carried the powerful name Sinéad, meaning ‘God’s gracious gift.’
• Aidan Turner – The Irish actor known for Poldark and The Hobbit series has the popular Gaelic name Aidan, meaning ‘little and fiery.’
• Colm Meaney – The Irish actor famous for Star Trek and The Commitments has the gentle Gaelic name Colm, meaning ‘dove.’
• Cillian Murphy – The star of Peaky Blinders has one of the most beloved Gaelic names, Cillian, meaning ‘bright-headed.’

Gaelic baby girl names and meanings

1. Aisling (Ash-ling)

Aisling means ‘dream’ or ‘vision’ and refers to a poetic genre that developed in Irish literature during the 17th and 18th centuries.

2. Aoife (Ee-fah)

This lyrical name of Irish Gaelic origin means ‘beautiful, radiant’ and is associated with legendary female warriors in Irish mythology.

3. Caitlín (Kat-leen or Kate-lin)

A Gaelic form of Catherine, Caitlín means ‘pure, unsullied.’

4. Ciara (Kee-rah)

A beautiful name meaning ‘little dark one,’ perfect for a dark-haired baby girl.

5. Niamh (Nee-av or Nee-iv)

Meaning ‘bright, radiant, shining beauty,’ Niamh was a princess in Irish mythology and the daughter of the sea god.

6. Maeve (Mayve)

This strong Gaelic name means ‘she who intoxicates.’ In Irish mythology, Queen Maeve of Connacht was a powerful warrior.

7. Orlaith (Orl-ah)

Orlaith, or Orla, means ‘golden princess,’ making it a regal choice.

8. Róisín (Roh-sheen)

This sweet and traditional Irish name means ‘little rose.’

9. Saoirse (Seer-shah)

A strong and patriotic name, Saoirse means ‘freedom’ or ‘liberty.’

10. Sinéad (Shin-aid)

A well-known name meaning ‘God’s gracious gift.’

Gaelic baby boy names and meanings

1. Aidan (Ay-dan)

Aidan means ‘little and fiery’ and comes from Aodh, the ancient Celtic god of the sun and fire.

2. Cillian (Kill-ee-an)

This strong Irish name means ‘bright-headed.’

3. Colm (Koll-im)

A gentle name meaning ‘dove.’

4. Darragh (Dah-rah)

Darragh is a unisex name meaning ‘oak tree’ or ‘strength.’

5. Fionn (Fyun)

Fionn means ‘fair or white.’ The legendary warrior Fionn MacCumhaill (Finn McCool) was one of Ireland’s great heroes.

6. Lorcan (Lor-kan)

A noble-sounding name meaning ‘silent or fierce.’

7. Oisín (Ush-een)

One of the most famous Irish Gaelic names, Oisín means ‘little deer’ and comes from mythology, where Oisín was the son of a warrior and a fairy woman.

8. Seán (Shawn)

A timeless Gaelic name meaning ‘God is gracious.’

9. Rónán (Roh-nan)

A charming name meaning ‘little seal.’

10. Tadhg (Tie-gue)

A classic name meaning ‘poet’ and borne by many Irish kings and princes throughout history.