Gaelic names have a deep-rooted history and are commonly associated with Scotland, Ireland, and the broader Celtic region. They are derived from the ancient Gaelic language, a Celtic language spoken by the Gaels. With a melodic and lyrical quality, Gaelic boy names have an enduring appeal that transcends generations and borders.
Whether you are seeking inspiration, looking to honor your Gaelic heritage, or captivated by the beauty of Gaelic boy names, this article aims to provide 100 strong Gaelic boy names along with their meanings and some fun facts regarding the name.
In This Article
100 Uncommon and Popular Gaelic Boy Names
Check out our favorite 100 uncommon and popular Gaelic male names and meanings.
Adhamh
Adhamh is a Gaelic name meaning "red earth" or "ruddy." It is derived from the Hebrew name Adam, which means "man" or "earth." Adhamh is associated with the color red, symbolizing vitality and passion.
Aidan
Aidan is a Gaelic boy's name of Irish origin that means "little fire." Aidan embodies the image of a small yet powerful flame, representing warmth, energy, and determination.
Alastair
Alastair is a Gaelic name of Scottish origin that means "defender of the people." The name Alastair carries a sense of strength, leadership, and protection. Alastair Campbell, a prominent political strategist, has played a significant role in shaping political campaigns and communication strategies.
Angus
Angus is a Gaelic name that means "exceptional strength." In Gaelic mythology, Aonghus was a god associated with love and beauty. The name has gained popularity beyond Gaelic-speaking regions, particularly in Scotland and Ireland.
Artair
Artair is a Gaelic name for boys that means "bear." Bears hold symbolic significance in Gaelic folklore, representing protection and resilience.
Baird
Baird is a masculine Gaelic name that means "bard" or "poet." In Gaelic culture, bards played a crucial role in preserving history and tradition through their lyrical compositions.
Barry
Barry is a Gaelic male name of Irish origin that means "fair-haired." It is derived from the Irish word "báire." The name Barry became popular in Ireland due to its association with the legendary hero Fionn mac Cumhaill, also known as Finn McCool, who had red hair.
Beathan
Beathan is a Gaelic name that means "life" or "vitality." Beathan MacAoidh is a historian who has dedicated his career to studying and preserving Gaelic history and heritage.
Breandan
Breandan is a Gaelic name that means "prince" or "little raven." It combines the imagery of royalty and the intelligence of the raven.
Bryce
Bryce is a Gaelic name for boys that means "speckled" or "descendant of Brice." The has gained popularity as a unisex name. Bryce Courtenay has written compelling novels that explore themes of resilience and humanity.
Caelan
Caelan is a Gaelic boy's name that means "powerful warrior." Historically, warriors held significant roles in Gaelic society, defending their clans and maintaining order.
Cairbre
Cairbre is a Gaelic name that means "charioteer." The name Cairbre reflects the role of charioteers in ancient Gaelic society, symbolizing bravery, skill, and speed. Chariots played a significant role in warfare and transportation during ancient times, and charioteers were highly respected for their expertise.
Callum
Callum is a Gaelic name that means "dove." The name Callum carries a sense of peace, purity, and gentleness, associated with the symbolism of doves. Doves have long been seen as messengers of love, hope, and tranquility.
Carrig
Carrig is a Gaelic name for boys that means "rock." The name Carrig signifies strength, stability, and endurance.
Cathal
Cathal is a Gaelic name that means "battle ruler." Cathal Brugha is a politician who played a significant role in the Irish War of Independence, contributing to the establishment of an independent Ireland.
Cedric
Cedric is a Gaelic name of English origin derived from the phrase "bounty of Ceres," the Roman goddess of agriculture and fertility. Cedric Hardwicke left a notable impact on the world of theater and film with his captivating performances.
Ciaran
Ciaran is a Gaelic male name that means "dark-haired." Ciaran Carson is a poet who has crafted evocative verses that capture the essence of Irish landscapes and culture.
Conan
Conan is a Gaelic boy's name that means "little wolf." The name Conan embodies the qualities of courage, strength, and cunning, associated with the spirit of a wolf. Wolves have long been revered in Gaelic folklore and mythology for their hunting skills and loyalty to their pack.
Conn
Conn is a Gaelic name that means "chief" or "leader." It reflects the importance of strong leaders in Gaelic society, who played crucial roles in governance, warfare, and decision-making.
Cormac
Cormac is a Gaelic boy's name that means "son of defilement." The name Cormac carries a sense of complexity and depth, highlighting the challenges and transformations in one's life journey.
Cormag
Cormag is a Gaelic name that means "raven." Ravens have been depicted as powerful and magical creatures in Gaelic mythology and folklore.
Curran
Curran is a Gaelic name that means "hero" or "champion." Heroes and champions played significant roles in Gaelic folklore and legends, often undertaking daring quests and protecting their communities.
Darragh
Darragh is a Gaelic name that means "oak." The name Darragh represents the strength, stability, and endurance associated with the oak tree.
Declan
Declan is a Gaelic name that means "full of goodness." eindness, virtue, and generosity.
Desmond
Desmond is a Gaelic name that means "gracious defender." It represents the desire to defend and support others with grace and compassion. Desmond Llewelyn, is an actor who is best known for his role as Q in the James Bond film series.
Diarmuid
Diarmuid is a Gaelic name that means "without enemy." It reflects the desire for a world free from hostility and animosity. Diarmuid Ua Duibhne is a mythological figure associated with Irish folklore, known for his heroic deeds and tragic love story.
Domhnall
Domhnall is a Gaelic name for boys that means "ruler of the world." It reflects the aspiration to make a positive impact on a global scale. Domhnall de Barra is a historian who has delved into the complexities of Irish history, shedding light on significant events and figures.
Donncha
Donncha is a Gaelic male name that means "brown-haired warrior." The name Donncha represents a combination of physical attributes and martial qualities.
Duncan
Duncan is a masculine Gaelic name that means "dark warrior." The name reflects the archetype of the warrior figure, associated with courage and battle prowess. Duncan Haldane is a physicist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for his contributions to the field of condensed matter physics.
Eamon
Eamon is a Gaelic name that means "rich protector." The name Eamon combines the qualities of wealth, guardianship, and prosperity. Eamon de Valera is a politician who played a significant role in the establishment of the Irish state and its subsequent governance.
Ennis
Ennis is a Gaelic boy's name that means "island," representing a place of solitude, tranquility, and natural beauty.
Eoghan
Eoghan is a Gaelic name that means "born of the yew tree," symbolizing strength, resilience, and longevity. The yew tree has been associated with immortality and transformation in Gaelic mythology.
Eoin
Eoin is a Gaelic name that means "God is gracious," representing divine benevolence and kindness. The name is is an equivalent of the English name John, which is derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan.
Ewan
Ewan is a Gaelic name that means "born of the yew tree," symbolizing strength, resilience, and longevity.
Fergus
Fergus is a Gaelic name that means "man of vigor." Fergus O'Connell is an author who has written popular books on project management and personal development.
Finlay
Finlay is a Gaelic name for boys that means "fair warrior." The name represents the ideal of a noble and honorable warrior in Gaelic society.
Fionn
Fionn is a Gaelic name that means "fair" or "white," symbolizing purity, clarity, and brightness.
Fraser
Fraser is a Gaelic male name that means "strawberry," representing sweetness, vitality, and growth. Strawberries have been cherished as symbols of fertility and abundance in Gaelic folklore.
Galloway
Galloway is a Gaelic male name that means "foreign Gael," indicating a person from a different Gaelic region.
Galvin
Galvin is a Gaelic name that means "sparrow hawk," representing agility, keen vision, and grace. Sparrows hawks were regarded as powerful and skillful hunters in Gaelic mythology.
Gavan
Gavan is a Gaelic name that means "white hawk." Gavan O'Herlihy is an actor who has appeared in various films and television shows, captivating audiences with his performances.
Gearoid
Gearoid is a Gaelic name that means "spear brave," representing courage, valor, and warrior spirit. Gearóid Óg is a poet that is known for his contributions to Gaelic literature, creating inspiring verses and preserving cultural heritage.
Glen
Glen is a Gaelic name for boys that means "valley," representing a peaceful and scenic natural formation. Gaelic landscapes are characterized by breathtaking valleys, often associated with tranquility and harmony.
Grady
Grady is a Gaelic boy's name that means "noble," representing dignity, honor, and distinction.
Hamish
Hamish is a Gaelic name for boys that means "supplanter," signifying the act of replacing or taking over. The name is the Scottish variant of James.
Iain
Iain is a Gaelic name that means "gift of God," representing divine blessings and favor. The name is the Scottish variant of John, which is a widely used name with biblical origins.
Iver
Iver is a masculine Gaelic name that means "archer," representing skill, precision, and focus. Archery was an important skill in Gaelic warfare, highlighting the strategic and disciplined nature of warriors.
Keelan
Keelan is a Gaelic name that means "slim" or "slender," emphasizing a graceful and slender physique.
Kieran
Kieran is a Gaelic male name that means "dark-haired." Dark hair was considered an attractive trait in Gaelic society.
Kyle
Kyle is a Gaelic male name that means "narrow," signifying a slim and slender appearance. The name reflects the appreciation for streamlined forms and delicate features in Gaelic culture.
Lachlan
Lachlan is a Gaelic name for boys that means "land of lakes," representing the natural beauty and abundance of lakes in the Scottish landscape. Scotland is known for its picturesque lochs, making it an apt and evocative name choice.
Lennan
Lennan is a Gaelic name that means "lover," symbolizing affection, passion, and devotion.
Lennox
Lennox is a Gaelic boy's name that means "elm grove," representing a serene and beautiful place filled with elm trees.
Liam
Liam is a Gaelic boy's name that means "resolute protector," embodying strength, determination, and a strong sense of responsibility. The name is a short form of the Irish name Uilliam, which is the equivalent of William in English.
Lorcan
Lorcan is a Gaelic name that means "little fierce one," representing a person who is small in stature but possesses great strength and determination.
Lugh
Lugh is a Gaelic name that means "light," symbolizing illumination, knowledge, and inspiration. Lugh is a prominent figure in Celtic mythology, associated with the sun and known as a skilled warrior and craftsman.
Malcolm
Malcolm is a Gaelic name that means "disciple of Saint Columba," representing a connection to the revered Irish saint. Saint Columba was a prominent figure in Celtic Christianity, known for his missionary work and founding of monastic settlements.
Muir
Muir is a Gaelic name that means "sea," symbolizing the vastness, power, and mystique of the ocean.
Murdoch
Murdoch is a Gaelic name that means "sea warrior".
Nevin
Nevin is a Gaelic name for boys that means "holy" or "saintly," symbolizing spiritual purity, righteousness, and devotion.
Niall
Niall is a a Gaelic boy's name that means "champion." In Gaelic mythology, Niall of the Nine Hostages was a legendary High King of Ireland.
Odhran
Odhran is a Gaelic name that means "pale green." It is derived from the Gaelic word "odhra," which refers to a shade of green. In Irish folklore, Odhran was a saint associated with music and poetry.
Oisin
Oisin is a Gaelic name that means "little deer." It is derived from the Irish word "os," meaning "deer," and the diminutive suffix "-ín," indicating smallness. In Irish mythology, Oisin was a legendary warrior and poet, known for his association with the Fianna, a group of mythological heroes.
Orrin
Orrin is Gaelic name for boys that means "pale-skinned." In Irish mythology, Orrin was associated with a golden appearance, representing beauty and radiance.
Padraig
Padraig is Gaelic name that means "noble." St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, known for bringing Christianity to the country.
Peadar
Peadar is a Gaelic boy's name that means "rock." Peadar is a popular name in Irish culture, often used as a Gaelic version of Peter.
Phelan
Phelan is a Gaelic name that means "wolf." It derives from the Old Irish word "félan," which refers to the fierce and noble animal.
Quinn
Quinn is a Gaelic name that means "wisdom." It is derived from the Irish word "cúinn," which refers to intelligence and sagacity. Quinn is a unisex name and is increasingly popular as a given name for both boys and girls.
Rafe
Rafe is a Gaelic name that means "wolf counsel." The association with wolves in Irish culture symbolizes intelligence and strategic thinking.
Rian
Rian is a masculine Gaelic name that means "little king." Rian carries the regal connotation of kingship, representing authority and leadership.
Ronan
Ronan is Gaelic name that means "little seal." In Gaelic folklore, seals are often associated with enchantment, mystery, and transformation.
Rooney
Rooney is a Gaelic boy's name that means "red-haired." Red hair has long been associated with Irish and Celtic heritage, and the name Rooney embraces this distinct characteristic.
Rory
Rory is a Gaelic name for boys that means "red king." The name Rory has deep roots in Gaelic history and mythology, evoking imagery of powerful rulers with red hair.
Ross
Ross is a masculine Gaelic name that means "headland" or "promontory." It refers to a geographical feature, typically a coastal formation. Ireland's rugged coastline is dotted with stunning headlands and promontories, and the name Ross reflects the country's natural beauty.
Ruairi
Ruairi is a Gaelic name that means "red king." The name Ruairi has strong associations with ancient Irish kingship and heroism.
Seamus
Seamus is a Gaelic boy's name that means "supplanter," referring to someone who takes the place of another, usually through force or strategy. Seamus Heaney is one of Ireland's most celebrated poets and Nobel laureates in Literature.
Sean
Sean is a Gaelic name derived from the Hebrew name John, meaning "God is gracious." It has become an anglicized form of the Irish name Seán.
Shaw
Shaw is a Gaelic name that means "from the thicket" or "dweller by the thicket." It is derived from the Irish word "seadh," which refers to a dense growth of shrubs or small trees.
Sheridan
Sheridan is a Gaelic name that means "seeker." The name Sheridan reflects the Irish spirit of curiosity, adventure, and the desire for knowledge.
Soren
Soren is a Gaelic name that means "bright" or "keen." It is derived from the Irish word "sorcha," which refers to brightness or radiance.
Sorley
Sorley is a Gaelic name that means "summer traveler." It is derived from the Irish word "samhradh," meaning "summer," and "laoch," meaning "warrior" or "traveler."
Steafan
Steafan is a Gaelic name that means "crown." It is an Irish variant of the name Stephen.
Sullivan
Sullivan is a Gaelic boy's name that means "dark-eyed." It is derived from the Irish words "súil" meaning "eye" and "fionn" meaning "dark" or "fair." The name Sullivan reflects the captivating allure and depth often associated with dark eyes.
Tadhg
Tadhg is a masculine Gaelic name that means "poet" or "philosopher." It is derived from the Old Irish word "tádhg," which referred to a person skilled in poetic arts.
Taran
Taran is a Gaelic name for boys that means "thunder." It evokes the power, energy, and majesty of thunderstorms. In Gaelic mythology, thunder was associated with the forces of nature and the divine.
Teagan
Teagan is a Gaelic name that means "beautiful" or "attractive." It is derived from the Irish word "teagmháil," meaning "contact" or "interaction."
Tiernan
Tiernan is a Gaelic name that means "lord" or "noble." It is derived from the Irish word "tighearn," which refers to a noble or aristocratic person.
Torin
Torin is a Gaelic name that means "chief" or "lord." It is derived from the Irish word "toirneach," which refers to a chieftain or leader. The name Torin represents strength, authority, and leadership.
Trahern
Trahern is a Gaelic name that means "strong as iron." The name Trahern conveys the image of unyielding strength and resilience, likened to the durability of iron.
Tristan
Tristan is a Gaelic name that means "tumult" or "outcry." It has roots in Celtic mythology and is associated with dramatic events and emotions.
Tully
Tully is a Gaelic boy's name that means "hill." In Irish mythology, hills were often seen as sacred places, believed to be dwelling sites of ancient spirits and deities.
Tynan
Tynan is a Gaelic name that means "dark." It is derived from the Irish word "tene," which refers to darkness or blackness.
Uaine
Uaine is a Gaelic name that means "green." It is derived from the Irish word "uaine," which refers to the color green. Green is a significant color in Irish culture, symbolizing Ireland's lush landscapes and natural beauty.
Uchtan
Uchtan is a Gaelic name that means "water."
Uibhneas
Uibhneas is a Gaelic name for boys that means "joy" or "delight." It evokes a sense of happiness, contentment, and celebration.
Uillt
Uillt is a Gaelic name that means "woods." It is derived from the Irish word "coillte," which refers to a forest or wooded area.
Ujarak
Ujarak is a Gaelic name that means "fast" or "quick." It conveys speed, swiftness, and agility. The name embodies the energy and efficiency associated with fast actions.
Uldis
Uldis is a Gaelic name that means "fire."
Uluvuk
Uluvuk is a Gaelic name that means "bear." It is derived from the Irish word "dóiteán," which refers to a bear. Bears hold significance in Irish mythology and folklore, symbolizing strength, protection, and wisdom.
Whelan
Whelan is a Gaelic name that means "faithful" or "loyal." It embodies the qualities of trustworthiness, devotion, and steadfastness.