101 Celtic Boy Names (With Meanings)

You need to use caution when reading many articles about Celtic boy names.

Many of the big ‘Mom blogs’ located in the US, in particular, have lists of Celtic names for boys…. but there’s a problem.

Many of these names that they claim are ‘Celtic’ are either in no way linked to the Celts or they are in fact last names, and not first names.

In the article below, you’ll find a mix of strong Celtic boy names along with their meanings and how to pronounce them.

Ancient, old, unusual and rare Celtic boys names

Right – let’s dive into some Celtic names for boys, starting alphabetically. Some letters, like ‘A’, have a bunch more names than others.

For each name, you’ll get info on how to say it, what it means, and a little note on ancient Irish figures that held the name.

1. Ailill

Ailill is a rare Celtic boys name that you won’t come across too often.

Pronounced ‘Ah + yill’, it means ‘Beauty’. The name ‘Ailill’ featured heavily in certain corners of Irish folklore.

You might remember Ailill as the King of Connacht and husband to the mighty warrior Queen Medb.

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Ailill

• How it’s pronounced: Ah + yill
• What it means: Beauty
• Variations: NA
• Famous Ailills: Ailill mac Máta (King of Connacht)

2. Ardan

Those of you familiar with ancient Celtic mythology will know that Ardan was one of the Sons of Uisnech.

Pronounced ‘Ar-dawn’ the name means ‘High ambition’ or ‘High aspiration’, which is why it’s one of the more popular Celtic names for boys.

In the tragic tale of Deirdre, Ardan and his brothers, Naoise and Ainnle, helped Deirdre flee to Scotland.

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Ardan

• How it’s pronounced: Ar-dawn
• What it means: High aspiration or high ambition
• Variations: NA
• Famous Ardans: Na

3. Anluan

Now, if you’re from outside of Ireland and you’re thinking of giving your little fella the name ‘Anluan’, just keep in mind that a lot of people will likely have trouble pronouncing it.

Anluan (pronounced ‘An-lon’) is one of the more unique Celtic boys names and it has a strong meaning – ‘Champion’.

It’s rare that you’ll hear this name which makes it all the more appealing if you’re looking to move away from commonly used Celtic boy names.

Unique Celtic names for boys: Key info on the name Anluan

• How it’s pronounced: An-lon
• What it means: Champion, hero or warrior
• Variations: NA
• Famous Anluans: NA

4. Abbán

Abbán is a short and beautiful Celtic boys name meaning ‘little abbot’ or ‘father’.

The most notable ‘Abbán’ from ancient Ireland was Abbán moccu Corbmaic, a saint linked to St. Patrick.

Although this is a masculine name, it’s thought that ‘Abbán’ originates from form ‘abba’, which was influenced by the Irish girls name Ailbe.

Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Abban

• How it’s pronounced: Ab-awn
• What it means: Abbot or father
• Variations: NA
• Famous Abbans: Abbán moccu Corbmaic (Irish saint)

5. Aengus

Next up is one of the more traditional Irish male names – ‘Aengus’ (pronounced ‘Ang-gus’).

This name pops up a lot in Irish mythology and gets spelled as ‘Angus’ outside of Ireland.

Aengus was a member of the warriors the Tuatha Dé Danann. He was a Celtic God of love and poetry.

Ancient Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Aengus

• How it’s pronounced: Ang-gus
• What it means: One choice or one strength
• Variations: Angus
• Famous Aenguses: Aengus Finnan (folk musician)

6. Aodhan

Aodhan comes from the very old Celtic boy name that you rarely hear anymore, ‘Aodh’.

In ancient legends from Irish mythology, Aodh was the prince of the Aos Sí – a supernatural race in Celtic mythology.

Aodh was also the son of High King Lir who ruled Ireland’s fiercest tribe, the Tuatha de Dannan.

Unique Celtic names for boys: Key info on the name Aodhan

• How it’s pronounced: Ay-dawn
• What it means: Fiery, bringer of fire or little fire
• Variations: Aidan + Aedan
• Famous Aodhans: Aidan Gillen (actor)

7. Ainmire

Another Celtic boy name with roots in ancient Ireland is ‘Ainmuire’, pronounced ‘Ayen-mire’.

Meaning ‘Great lord’, ‘Ainmuire’ was one of Ireland’s High Kings (Ainmuire mac Sétnai) from 566 to 569.

One of his most notable conquests was during the Battle of Cúl Dreimne in 561 where he defeated Uí Néill’s high king.

Celtic names for boys: Key info on the name Ainmire

• How it’s pronounced: Ayen-mire
• What it means: Great lord
• Variations: Ainmuire
• Famous Ainmires: Saint Ainmire

8. Anrai

Many people on the hunt for strong Celtic male names favour ‘Anrai’ (the anglicised version of ‘Anrai’ is ‘Henry’).

Meaning ‘Ruler of the home/estate’, ‘Anrai’ is easily pronounced – ‘Awn-ree’.

Unique Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Anrai

• How it’s pronounced: Awn-ree
• What it means: Rules the home/estate
• Variations: Annraoi + Henry
• Famous Anrais: Annraoi Ó Liatháin (Irish writer)

9. Art

Next up is one of the most popular Celtic male names. Art is an old Celtic boys name that means “bear” or “champion” (who needs Celtic symbols for strength with a name like that!).

In ancient Ireland, ‘Art’ is a strong name that’s steeped in royalty. Two powerful High Kings of Ireland (Art mac Cuinn and Art mac Lugdach) bore this name. 

Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Art

• How it’s pronounced: Art
• What it means: Bear or champion
• Variations: NA
• Famous Arts: Art Garfunkel (singer)

10. Bradán

Our next Celtic boys name, ‘Bradán’, is a bit of a strange one. Although it’s popular in the US, you’ll rarely hear it used as a first name in Ireland.

The first name ‘Bradán’ stems from the old Irish surname ‘Ó Bradáin’. Meaning wise, ‘Bradán’ translates to ‘Salmon’.

Now, I know you might think this is a bit of a weird meaning for a Celtic male name, but it’s worth reading the old Irish legend about the Salmon of Knowledge before you pass judgement.

Uncommon Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Braden

• How it’s pronounced: Bray-dawn
• What it means: Salmon
• Variations: Bradan + Braden
• Famous Bradáns: Braden Danner (actor)

11. Barry

Although you won’t find any Irish legends about men/boys named ‘Barry’, this is a popular Celtic boy name.

“Barry” is both a first name and a Celtic surname. It’s linked to Báire, Barrfind, and Finbar and it means ‘fair-haired’.

Popular Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Barry

• How it’s pronounced: Ba-ry
• What it means: Fair-haired
• Variations: Báire
• Famous Barrys: Barry Keoghan (Irish actor)

12. Brian

If you have high asperations for your little fella, the name ‘Brian’, which means ‘High’ or ‘Noble’ is worth considering.

Another name that’s steeped in ancient Irish royalty, Brian Boru was on of the most notable High Kings of Ireland.

Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Brian

• How it’s pronounced: Bry-an
• What it means: High or noble
• Variations: NA
• Famous Brian’s: Brian O’Driscoll (rugby player)

13. Brendan

Those familiar with ancient Irish tales will remember an Irish monk by the name of ‘St. Brendan’ who penned ‘The Voyage of St. Brendan the Abbot.’

It recounts the story of St. Brendan’s legendary journey in pursuit of a remarkable island. The Celtic boys name ‘Brendan’ (pronounced ‘Brenn-dan’) means ‘Price’ or ‘King’.

Modern Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Brendan

• How it’s pronounced: Brenn-dan
• What it means: Prince or king
• Variations: Breanndán, Brandon+ Brénainn
• Famous Brendans: Brendan Gleeson (Irish actor)

14. Braon

Braon is one of the more unusual Celtic boys names and, because of it’s slightly dark meaning (rain or sorrow), it’s not one of the more popular.

‘Brennan’ is another variation of ‘Braon’. ‘Brennan’ is a common Irish last name and means “descendant of Braonán.” 

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Braon

• How it’s pronounced: Bray-on
• What it means: Rain or sorrow
• Variations: Braonán + Brennan
• Famous Braons: NA 

15. Caolán

‘Caolán’ is one of the more beautiful Celtic boys names but, if you’re not familiar with it, it can look a bit intimidating (‘Keelan’ is the anglicised version).

Meaning ‘Slender’ or ‘Fine’, it’s easily pronounced ‘Kee-lin’.

Unique Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Caolán

• How it’s pronounced: Kee-lin
• What it means: Slender or fine
• Variations: Kelan, Keelan + Kealan
• Famous Caoláns: Caolan Lavery (footballer)

16. Craig

The name Craig is a modern Celtic boys name that has deep Scottish, Irish and Welsh links.

With a straightforward pronunciation (Cr-ay-g), this is a name that symbolises strength.

Meaning ‘Rock’, the name ‘Craig’ comes from an old Gaelic word, ‘Cread’, which means ‘Rock’. 

Unique Celtic names for boys: Key info on the name Craig

• How it’s pronounced: Cr-ay-g
• What it means: Rock
• Variations: NA
• Famous Craig’s: Craig David (singer)

17. Conchobhar

If you’re on the hunt for rare Celtic boys names, look no further than ‘Conchobhar’, which is lined to the more popular name ‘Conor’.

Meaning ‘Lover of canines’, ‘Conchobhar’ is likely to cause many non-native-Irish-speakers trouble (it’s pronounced ‘Con-uh-chur’).

In the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology, Conchobar mac Nessa was a High King of Ulster. It was this Conchobhar that featured in the legend of the Cattle Raid of Cooley.

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Conchobhar

• How it’s pronounced: Con-uh-chur
• What it means: Lover of canines
• Variations: Conchúr + Conochúr
• Famous Conchobhar’s: Conchobar mac Nessa (King of Ulster in mythology)

18. Cían

Cían is one of the more popular Celtic names for boys. It’s easy to pronounce (‘Kee-an) and has strong ties to Irish myth.

You may remember Cían as the son-in-law of Brian Boru, the King of Muster who was conquered in the battle of Clontarf.

Unique Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Cían

• How it’s pronounced: Kee-an
• What it means: Ancient or enduring in Gaelic
• Variations: NA
• Famous Cíans: Cian Healy (Irish rugby player)

19. Cillian

Cillian, which means ‘Little church’ is a Celtic boys name that’s anglicised as ‘Killian’.

The most famous ‘Killian’ from ancient Ireland is arguably the missionary, Saint Killian, who travelled to Germany during the 7th century.

Fr Patrick Woulfe who authored ‘Sloinnte Gaedheal is Gall’, a dictionary of Celtic names and surnames, said the name Cillian is the ‘pet’ diminutive of ‘Ceallach’ which means”strife” or “bright-headed”.

Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Cillian

• How it’s pronounced: Kill-i-an
• What it means: Little church, strife or bright-headed
• Variations: Kilian + Killian
• Famous Cillian’s: Cillian Murphy (actor)

20. Conor

Few Celtic male names are as popular as ‘Conor’, which means ‘Lover of wolves/hounds’/

One of the most popular Irish boys names, ‘Conor’ comes from the name ‘Conchobhar‘ or ‘Conaire’, which are names that frequent many tales from Irish folklore.

Old Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Conor

• How it’s pronounced: Con-or
• What it means: Lover of wolves/hounds
• Variations: NA
• Famous Conor’s: Conor McGregor (UFC fighter)

21. Callum

Although many people (myself included) think that Callum is an English name, it’s one that stems from a Latin word that means ‘Dove’.

It’s the meaning of this name that made it popular amongst early Christians, in particular, as the dove was a symbol of the Holy Spirit.

Old Celtic male names: Key info on the name Callum

• How it’s pronounced: Cal-um
• What it means: Dove
• Variations: na
• Famous Callum’s: Callum Wilson (British footballer)

22. Ciarán

‘Ciarán’ (pronounced ‘Keer-awn’) is one of the more traditional Celtic boys name and it means ‘Little dark haired one’.

The name ‘Ciarán’ can be found throughout ancient Ireland with several Irish saints including Ciarán the Elder and the High King of Ulster, ‘Ciar’, donning the name.

Old Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Ciarán

• How it’s pronounced: Keer-awn
• What it means: Little dark one or dark-haired one
• Variations: NA
• Famous Ciaráns: Ciaran Hinds (actor)

23. Conán

If you grew up watching a famous fictional Barbarian, you may recognise the name Celtic boys name ‘Conán’ (pronounced ‘Cone-an’).

Meaning ‘Small hound’ or ‘Little wolf’, ‘Conán’ was a regular feature in stories from Irish mythology.

Conán mac Lia was a member of the Fianna – some of the fiercest warriors in ancient Ireland.

Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Conán

• How it’s pronounced: Cone-an
• What it means: Small hound or little wolf
• Variations: NA
• Famous Conáns: Conan the Barbarian (famous fiction character)

24. Colm

Although the name ‘Colm’ isn’t really a Celtic boys name, the name it’s linked to, ‘Callum’, is.

‘Colm’ is a modern variation of the Latin name ‘Columba’ and is often considered an alternative spelling to Callum. Pronounced ‘Coll-um’, it means ‘Dove’.

Short Celtic boy bames: Key info on the name Colm

• Pronounced: Coll-um
• What it means: Dove
• Variations: NA
• Famous Colm’s: Colm Meaney (actor)

25. Cathal

‘Cathal’ (pronounced ‘Cah-hall’) is one of the less rare Celtic boy names but it’s one that has links to many a might warrior.

It comes from the word ‘Cath’, meaning ‘Battle’, and ‘Val’, meaning ‘Rule’. 

Kings of Munster, like Cathal Cú-cen-máthair, and Kings of Connacht, like Cathal mac Conchobair, have favoured this name.

Beautiful Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Cathal

• How it’s pronounced: Cah-hall
• What it means: Battle or rule
• Variations: Cahal
• Famous Cathal’s: Cathal Pendred (MMA)

26. Cormac

Cormac is another old Celtic boys name, although it’s What it means is not exactly clear. In Irish, the word ‘Mac’ translates to ‘son’.

However, it’s the ‘Cor’ part that’s unclear. It’s believed that ‘Cor’ relates to ‘Corb’ which is an old Gaelic word for ‘Wheel’.

Others believe it is an old Irish word for ‘Raven’, which was seen by the Celts as a mythical creature.

Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Cormac

• How it’s pronounced: Cor-mack
• What it means: Charioteer or raven
• Variations: Cormack
• Famous Cormac’s: Cormac McCarthy (novelist)

27. Coileáin

Coileáin (anglicised as ‘Colin’) means ‘Pup’ or ‘Trickster’, which may be very suiting to your new arrival!

Easily pronounced (‘Quill-awn’), the name is linked to the Irish surname ‘Ó Coileáin’ which was mainly found in the early kingdom of northern Munster.

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Colin

• How it’s pronounced: Quill-awn
• What it means: Pup or trickster
• Variations: Colin, Cailean + Cuilen
• Famous Colin’s: Colin Farrell (Irish actor)

28. Caoimhín

One of several traditional Celtic boys names that can be near impossible for some to pronounce, ‘Caoimhín’ is the Irish version of ‘Kevin’.

It’s believed that Caoimhín means ‘Noble at birth’. The most famous Kevin from ancient Ireland was Saint Kevin who founded Glendalough Abbey.

Unique Celtic names for boys: Key info on the name Caoimhín

• How it’s pronounced: Kwee-veen
• What it means: Noble at birth
• Variations: Kevin
• Famous Caoimhíns: Kevin McCarthy (actor)

29. Canice

Although it may look like one of the more popular Irish girls names, ‘Canice’ is the anglicised version of ‘Cainnech’ and ‘Coinneach’.

This is a Celtic boys name that means ‘handsome’. 

Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Canice

• How it’s pronounced: Can-is
• What it means: Handsome
• Variations: Cainnech + Coinneach
• Famous Canices: Cainnech of Aghaboe (Irish saint)

30. Connell

Few old Celtic boys names have catapulted in popularity like Connell (yep, it was Paul Mescal’s characters name in the hit Irish show ‘Normal People’).

The name either means ‘hound’ (‘con’ comes from the ‘cú’, What it means hound) or ‘valour’.

Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Connell

• How it’s pronounced: Con-il
• What it means: Hound or valour
• Variations: NA
• Famous Connells: NA

31. Conlaoch

Conlaoch is an old Celtic boy name that’s said to mean ‘hero’ or ‘chief’.

The most notable Conlaoch in ancient Ireland is the son of the fierce warrior Cú Chulainn.

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Conlaoch

• How it’s pronounced: Connla (Kawn-lah). Conlaoch (Con-lay-ick)
• What it means: Hero or chief
• Variations: Connla
• Famous Conlaochs: NA

32. Conal

Although there are many Celtic symbols for strength, you won’t need any of them with a name like ‘Conal’, which means ‘Strong as a wolf’.

One famous Conall in Irish mythology was Conall Cernach who was described as ‘one of the fairest of the warriors of Ireland’.

It’s said that he had a crooked neck and slept with the head of his enemies under his knee.

Unique Celtic names for boys: Key info on the name Conal

• How it’s pronounced: Coh-nal
• What it means: Strong as a wolf
• Variations: NA
• Famous Conals: Conal Gallen (Irish comedian)

33. Colmán

Said to be the equivalent of the name ‘Colm’, ‘Colmán’ is a name that was given to many Irish Saints.

One of the most notable was Saint Colmán of Cloyne who was a monk that was said to have extraordinary poetic powers.

Traditional Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Colmán

• How it’s pronounced: Cohl-a-man
• What it means: Little dove
• Variations: NA
• Famous Colmáns: Colmán mac Cobthaig (Irish king)

34. Dónal

Anglicised as ‘Donald’, Dónal is a beautiful old Celtic boys name that’s liked to a very old name, ‘Dòmhnall’.

Meaning ‘World ruler’, it’s pronounced ‘Doh-nal’.

Unique Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Donal

• How it’s pronounced: Doh-nal
• What it means: World ruler or world wielder
• Variations: Domhnall + Donald
• Famous Donals: Domhnall Gleeson (Irish actor)

35. Diarmuid

If you’re looking for strong Celtic boys names with many-a-tale tied to them, look no further than ‘Diarmuid’.

This is a name that was given to many boys that grew to be Irish kings. One of the most famous was Diarmait mac Cerbaill who was the King of Tara.

Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Diarmuid

• How it’s pronounced: Deer-mid
• What it means: Without envy or free from envy
• Variations: Diarmuit + Dermot
• Famous Diarmuids: Diarmait mac Cerbaill (King of Tara)

36. Dáire

The name ‘Dáire’ is common in Ireland while the more anglicised versions (Dara, Darragh + Darren) can be found across the world.

Dáire is thought to have several different meanings, two of which are ‘fruitful or fertile’.

However, it’s also believed that the name could be linked to ‘Doire’, the Irish word for ‘oak’ (linked to the Dara Knot).

Short Celtic male names: Key info on the name

• How it’s pronounced: Dai-reh
• What it means: Fruitful, fertile or oak tree
• Variations: Dara, Darragh + Darren
• Famous Darrens: Darren Clarke (Irish golfer)

37. Donnacha

You’ll often see the name Donnacha top lists to ‘Unusual Celtic Boys Names’, but it’s a very common name here in Ireland.

In Irish legend, Donnacha was the name of a High King in Ireland.

‘Donn’ means brown/dark in Irish while ‘Chadh’ means noble or chief.

Unique Celtic names for boys: Key info on the name Donnacha

• How it’s pronounced: Done-acka
• What it means: Dark chief
• Variations: Donnchadh
• Famous Donnachas: Donnacha Ryan (Irish rugby player)

38. Dáithí

This old Celtic boy name is hard to pronounce for some, which is why you’ll more often than not see boys given the name ‘David’ instead.

Pronounced ‘Dah-hee’, it means ‘Swiftness’ or ‘nimbleness’.

Classic Celtic boys name: Key info on the name Daithi

• How it’s pronounced: Dah-hee
• What it means: Swiftness or nimbleness
• Variations: Dathí + David
• Famous Daithis: Dáithí Ó Sé (tv presenter)

39. Deaglan

If you see your young lad giving Irish blessings from an altar in the future, the name ‘Deaglan’ might be worth considering.

What it means ‘Man of prayer’ or ‘full of goodness’, the name is closely tied to Saint Declán who founded a monastery in Ireland during the 5th century.

Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Deaglan

• How it’s pronounced: Dehk-lun
• What it means: Man of prayer or full of goodness
• Variations: Declan
• Famous Deaglans: Declan Dale (filmmaker)

40. Desmond

The name ‘Desmond’ is said to come from Desmond (South Munster) in Ireland.

Although it’s What it means isn’t anything fancy, it’s tied to the Earl of Desmond – a title of nobility.

Traditional Celtic male names: Key info on the name Desmond

• How it’s pronounced: Des-mond
• What it means: South Munster
• Variations: NA
• Famous Desmonds: Desmond Tutu (South African archbishop)

41. Eoghan

If you live outside of Ireland, it’s likely that the name ‘Eoghan’ will cause your little fella a heap of hassle in later years.

This is yet another old Celtic boy name that appears in Irish legend as the name of one of Niall of the Nine Hostages’ sons.

Unique Celtic names for boys: Key info on the name Eoghan

• How it’s pronounced: O-in
• What it means: Noble born
• Variations: Eógan, Eoin + Owen
• Famous Eoghan’s: Eoghan Quigg (singer)

42. Éamonn

In Irish, ‘Éamonn’ is akin to the English names ‘Edmund’ or ‘Edward’.

It’s said to mean something along the lines of ‘Wealthy protector’.

Celtic boys name: Key info on the name Éamonn

• How it’s pronounced: Ay-mon
• What it means: Wealthy protector
• Variations: Eamon
• Famous Éamonns: Éamon de Valera (Irish president)

43. Eachan

One of the more unusual Celtic boys names, ‘Eachan’ is, strangely enough, anglicised as ‘Hector’.

It’s believed that the name means ‘Horse lord’ (each What it means ‘Horse’ and donn What it means ‘Lord’).

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Eachan

• How it’s pronounced: Eac-h-an
• What it means: Horse lord
• Variations: NA
• Famous Eachans: Eachann Mac Goraidh MacAlasdair (chief of Clan MacAlister)

44. Ernan

Ernan is a name that was given to several Irish Saints, one of which was St. Ernan, Son of Eogan who was a nephew of Saint Columba.

Simply pronounced ‘Air-nen’, it’s one of several Celtic boys names that means ‘Wise one’.

Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Ernan

• How it’s pronounced: Air-nen
• What it means: Iron or wise one
• Variations: NA
• Famous Ernans: NA

45. Enda

Enda is one of several gender neutral Irish names in this guide. In ancient Ireland, Enda was a warrior-king in Ulster.

Around 484, he established the first monastery on Arranmore Island in County Donegal.

Old Celtic male names: Key info on the name Enda

• How it’s pronounced: En-dah
• What it means: Like a bird/bird-like
• Variations: NA
• Famous Endas: Enda Kenny (former Taoiseach of Ireland)

46. Fintan

Fintan is arguably most suited as an Celtic boys name if the new arrival is fair (the name means ‘Little fair one’).

In Irish mythology, Fintan MacBochra was a shapeshifter who survived the Great Flood. He symbolised knowledge.

Unique Celtic names for boys: Key info on the name Fintan

• How it’s pronounced: Fin-ten
• What it means: Little fair one or white-haired
• Variations: NA
• Famous Fintans: Fintan O’Toole (journalist)

47. Fiachra

If you’re a fan of Irish folklore, you may recognise the name ‘Fiachra’ from the famous story of the Children of Lir.

Although it may look like one of the more intimidating Celtic boys names to pronounce, it’s easily said – ‘Fee-uh-kra’.

Celtic baby boy names: Key info on the name Fiachra

• How it’s pronounced: Fee-uh-kra
• What it means: Crow or raven
• Variations: Fiach
• Famous Fiachras: Fiachra Ó Ceallaigh (bishop of Dublin)

48. Féilim

The chances are you’ll be more familiar with the anglicised version of this traditional Celtic boys name – Felix!

The name ‘Féilim’, which means ‘beauty’, ‘ever good’ and ‘constant’ is easily pronounced – ‘Fail-em’.

This is another name that was worn by many High Kinds of Ireland, like Felim Ua Conchobair, King of Connacht.

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Felim

• How it’s pronounced: Fail-em
• What it means: Beauty, ever good and constant
• Variations: Felim, Féidhlim + Fedlimid
• Famous Felims: Felim O’Neill of Kinard (Irish politician)

49. Fionn

Next up is arguably one of the most beautiful Celtic boys names and it’s one that rings loud in the tales of Irish mythology.

‘Fionn’, which means ‘White’ or ‘Fair-haired’, is a name that many will know from the stories of the mythical Irish warrior Fionn Mac Cumhaill.

Popular Irish names for boys: Key info on the name Fionn

• How it’s pronounced: Fee-y-un
• What it means: White or Fair-haired
• Variations: Finn
• Famous Fionns: Fionn O’Shea (Irish actor)

50. Fearghal

Fearghal is another Celtic boys name that can be tricky to pronounce for some, however, it’s simply ‘Fer-ghal’.

There’s many a famous Fearghals, but few compare to Fearghal Ó Taidg an Teaghlaigh – a bodyguard of King Cathal Crobhdearg Ua Conchobair of Connacht (circa 1226).

Unique Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Fergal

• How it’s pronounced: Fer-ghal
• What it means: Man of valour
• Variations: Fergal
• Famous Fergals: Fearghal Purcell (footballer)

51. Feargus

It’s said that Feargus is one of the oldest Celtic boys names, with men across Ireland and Scotland proudly donning the name.

Easily pronounced (‘Fir-gus’), this another of the traditional Celtic boys names and it means ‘Strong one’ or ‘Masculine one’.

Traditional Celtic male names: Key info on the name Fergus

• How it’s pronounced: Fir-gus
• What it means: Strong one or masculine one
• Variations: Fergus
• Famous Ferguses: Fergus Bowes-Lyon (brother of the Queen Mother)

52. Finbar

The name ‘Finbar’, as was the case with the name ‘Fionn’, means ‘fair-headed-one’ (from the word ‘Fionnbharr’).

One of the more beautiful short Celtic boys names, the most famous Finbar was Saint Finbar of Cork who founded a monastery that grew to be the city of Cork.

Unique Irish names for boys: Key info on the name Finbar

• How it’s pronounced: Finn-bar
• What it means: Fair-headed-one
• Variations: Finbarr, Finbarre + Finnbar
• Famous Finbars: Saint Finbar (Irish bishop)

53. Gearoid

Gearoid is one of a handful of Celtic boys names with a fairly unclear What it means – it’s believed that it means something along the lines of ‘strength of spear’.

Those familiar with Irish folklore may remember Gearoid Iarla – the 3rd Earl of Desmond. He was Chief Justice for Ireland in 1367 and was known to dabble in magic.

This was ancient Ireland, remember. Poor aul Gearoid was said to be sent to live beneath the ancient Lough Gur in Limerick where, every seven years, he rides around the lake on a white horse.

Irish baby boy names: Key info on the name Gearoid

• How it’s pronounced: Gah-rohd
• What it means: Strength of spear
• Variations: Gerald, Garrett + Gerard
• Famous Gearoids: Gearoid Farrelly (comedian)

54. Iollan

Next up is one of the more unusual Celtic boys names – Iollan (pronounced ‘Ull-an’).

It’s said that Iollan means ‘the one that worships a different God’ and that it was used to describe Pagans in ancient Ireland.

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Iollan

• How it’s pronounced: Ull-an
• What it means: One that worships a different God
• Variations: NA
• Famous Iollans: NA

55. Liam

Uilliam is an old Celtic boy name that the name ‘Liam’ stems from. ‘Liam’ is also said to be a shortened version of the Germanic name ‘William’.

It means ‘Guardian’ or ‘Helmet of will’ and is easily pronounced ‘Lee-um’.

Strong Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Liam

• How it’s pronounced: Lee-um
• What it means: ‘Guardian’ or ‘Helmet of will’
• Variations: Uilliam
• Famous Liams: Liam Neeson (actor)

56. Lorcan

Next is another name that is rich in history – Lorcan. This name belonged to several kings, including the grandfather of the most famous king, Brian Boru.

Pronounced ‘Lor-ken’, there’s a lovely What it means behind this name – ‘Little fierce one’.

Irish baby boy names: Key info on the name Lorcan

• How it’s pronounced: Lor-ken
• What it means: Little fierce one
• Variations: NA
• Famous Lorcans: Lorcan Cranitch (Irish actor)

57. Lachlan

Lachlan is another of the more unusual Celtic boys names and it’s said to be the anglicised version of the Gaelic name ‘Lochlann’.

In ancient Irish literature, ‘Lochlann’ refers to a vague faraway place. However, in more recent history, the name was used to refer to Norway.

Traditional Celtic male names: Key info on the name Lochlan

• How it’s pronounced: Lack-lan
• What it means: Norway or from the land of lakes
• Variations: Lochlan
• Famous Lochlans: Lachlan Watson (actor)

58. Naoise

Naoise (pronounced ‘nee-sha’) is a strong Celtic boys name that some sources claim means ‘Warrior’, however, we couldn’t verify this.

In Irish mythology, Naoise was the nephew of King Conchobar mac Nessa of Ulster. Naoise falls in love with Deirdre, a woman who the King is also persuing and the pair flee to Scotland. The story has a tragic ending.

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Naoise

• How it’s pronounced: Nee-sha
• What it means: Unknown
• Variations: NA
• Famous Naoises: Naoise Dolan (novelist)

59. Niall

Niall is one of the more popular Celtic male names and it’s believe to come from the old Irish word ‘Niadh’, which means ‘Champion’.

Its popularity increased over the last decade, which may be down to the fame achieved by One Direction’s Niall Horan.

Irish baby boy names: Key info on the name Niall

• How it’s pronounced: Ni-el
• What it means: Champion
• Variations: NA
• Famous Nialls: Niall Horan (singer)

60. Naomhan

Naomhan (pronounced ‘Nee-vawn’) is a one of the rare Celtic boys names that you don’t come across too often.

It comes from an old Irish word ‘noíb’, which means ‘Holy’ or ‘Sacred’.

Old Celtic male names: Key info on the name Naomhan

• How it’s pronounced: Nee-vawn
• What it means: ‘Holy’ or ‘Sacred’
• Variations: NA
• Famous Naomhans: NA

11. Nechtan

Nechtan (pronounced ‘Nye-ach-tan’) was the name of a mythical figure from Irish legend that was linked to the spring that gave birth to the River Boyne.

Aptly, the name Nechtan is said to mean ‘Clean’ and ‘Pure’.

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Nechtan

• How it’s pronounced: Nye-ach-tan
• What it means: ‘Clean’ and ‘Pure’
• Variations: NA
• Famous Nechtans: Saint Nectan (nephew of Saint Patrick)

61. Odhrán

Odhrán is one of the more beautiful Celtic boys names and its more common anglicised version is ‘Oran’.

It’s believed that the name means ‘Pale green’. 

Irish names for boys: Key info on the name Odhrán

• How it’s pronounced: Oh-ran
• What it means: Pale green
• Variations: Oran
• Famous Orans: Oran of Iona (Irish saint)

62. Oscar

The origin of the name ‘Oscar’ goes back to Irish mythology and was the name of the grandson of Fionn Mac Cumhaill.

The word ‘Os’ means deer in Irish while ‘Car’ means friend or loving. The What it means of the name Ocar is open to interpretation, but ‘Friend of deer’ seems closest.

Unique Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Oscar

• How it’s pronounced: Os-kar
• What it means: Friend of deer
• Variations: NA
• Famous Oscars: Oscar Wilde (late Irish poet and playwright)

63. Oisín

Oisin is a famous name from Irish mythology. He was the son of Fionn mac Cumhaill and is considered the greatest poet of Ireland.

Pronounced ‘Ush-een’, the name means ‘Fawn’ or ‘Young Deer’. In the legend of Tír Na nÓg, Oisín travels to the land of youth, but to great consequence.

Traditional Celtic male names: Key info on the name Oisin

• How it’s pronounced: Ush-een
• What it means: Young deer or fawn
• Variations: NA
• Famous Oisins: Oisin Murphy (jockey)

64. Pádraig

Pádraig is one of the more famous Celtic boys names and it comes from ‘Patrick’, a name with Latin origins.

The name means ‘Noble’ or ‘Nobleman’, which is apt when you consider Ireland’s most famous Patrick, Saint Patrick, is Ireland’s patron saint.

Irish baby boy names: Key info on the name

• How it’s pronounced: Pádraig (Pah-drig), Páraic (Pah-rick) + Páidí (Pah-dee)
• What it means: Nobleman
• Variations: Patrick, Pádraic, Páraic + Páidí
• Famous Patricks: Patrick Spillane (former Gaelic footballer)

65. Peadar

Peadar is one of the more common Celtic boys names and it’s believed that it comes from the Greek word ‘Pertros’,which means stone/rock.

Although the name may look intimidating at first glance, it’s easily pronounced ‘Pah-dar’.

Traditional Celtic male names: Key info on the name Peadar

• How it’s pronounced: Pah-dar
• What it means: Stone/rock
• Variations: Peter
• Famous Peadars: Peadar O Guilin (author)

66. Proinséas

Next up is an unusual Irish name that is the Irish variation of Francis, a name which became known thanks to St Francis of Assisi.

It’s rare to see/hear this name in Ireland and, if you’re living abroad and considering name your boy ‘Proinséas’, just keep in mind people will have trouble reading/pronouncing it.

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Proinsias

• How it’s pronounced: Pron-shiss
• What it means: Little French man
• Variations: Proinsias
• Famous Proinsias: Proinsias De Rossa (Irish politician)

67. Ruairí

Ruairí is one of the more traditional Celtic boys names and it tends to be given to boys born with red hair.

The word ‘Ruadh’ means ‘red-haired’ in Irish while ‘Rígh’ means ‘King’. The name, pronounced ‘Rur-ee’ means ‘Red-haired king’.

ruadh (“red-haired”) and rígh (“king”).

Old Celtic male names: Key info on the name Ruairi

• How it’s pronounced: Roar-ee/Rur-ee
• What it means: Red-haired king
• Variations: Ruaidhrí + Rory
• Famous Ruairis: Ruairi O’Connor (Irish actor)

68. Ryan

The first name ‘Ryan’ comes from, the Irish surname ‘Ryan’ which in turn stems from the old Irish name ‘Rían’.

Pronounced ‘Rye’an’, it’s believed that it means ‘Little king’ (do note that this What it means is credited to more modern sources).

Irish baby boy names: Key info on the name Ryan

• How it’s pronounced: Rye-an
• What it means: Little king
• Variations: NA
• Famous Ryans: Ryan Gosling (Canadian actor)

69. Rónán

The name Rónán comes from the Gaelic word ‘Rón’, which means ‘seal’. This name pops up in an old legend about a mother seal that is warned to avoid getting close to the land.

However, a storm brigs her ashore and she gets trapped and becomes a Selkie. She marries a fisherman and has little ‘Rónáns’ (seals).

The story ends with her finding her seal skin and escaping back to sea yet always keeping a watch on her family from the waves.

Top Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Ronan

• How it’s pronounced: Row-nan
• What it means: Pledge, seal and promising oath
• Variations: NA
• Famous Ronans: Ronan Keating (singer)

70. Senan

Senan is a rare Celtic boys name that is still popular in certain parts of Ireland, but you’ll rarely hear it outside of Ireland.

It’s particularly popular in and around the County of Clare, where St. Senan is from. Pronounced ‘Se-nan’, it means ‘Old’ or ‘Wise’.

Old Irish baby boy names: Key info on the name Senan

• How it’s pronounced: Se-nan
• What it means: Old or wise
• Variations: Sennan + Senán
• Famous Senans: Senán mac Geirrcinn (Saint)

71. Seán

If you’re looking for classic Celtic boys names, Seán is worth considering. Pronounced ‘Shawn’, it means ‘God is gracious’.

Shane, the anglicised version of Seán, is more common, but Seán is a beautiful and easy to pronounce (Shawn) name.

Traditional Celtic male names: Key info on the name Sean

• How it’s pronounced: Shawn
• What it means: God is Gracious
• Variations: Shane + Seaghán
• Famous Seans: Sean Penn (actor)

72. Séamus

The chances are you’ll have met a Séamus or two in your time. Pronounced ‘Shay-mus’, this is the Irish version of the popular name ‘James’.

It means ‘One who supplants’ or ‘One who grabs the heel’, which is likely why is was used by the famous Irish wrestler of the same name.

Irish baby boy names: Key info on the name Séamus

• How it’s pronounced: Shay-mus
• What it means: ‘One who supplants’ or ‘One who grabs the heel’
• Variations: NA
• Famous Séamuss: Seamus Heaney (poet)

73. Sé

Next up is one of the more modern Celtic boys names and it’s one that you don’t see or hear too often.

Anglicised as ‘Shay’, ‘Sé’ is a short and sweet name that stems from the Hebrew name ‘Shai’.

Pronounced ‘Sh-ay’, it means ‘Admirable’. It’s one of a handful of Celtic male names that’s gender neutral.

Unique Irish names for boys: Key info on the name

• How it’s pronounced: Sh-ay
• What it means: Admirable
• Variations: Shay
• Famous Shays: Shay Roundtree (actor)

74. Tadhg

Few names are as stereotypically ‘Irish’ as the name ‘Tadhg’. In fact, certain people use this as a derogatory term for describing Irish people.

The above aside, ‘Tadhg’ is one of the more popular Celtic boys names and it was common in ancient Ireland, with the likes of Tadhg mac Muireadach Mac Cárthaigh – King of Desmond, bearing the name.

Old Celtic male names: Key info on the name Tadhg

• How it’s pronounced: Tie-g
• What it means: Poet or philosopher
• Variations: NA
• Famous Tadhgs: Tadhg Furlong (Irish rugby player)

75. Tómas

Tomás isn’t an exclusively Irish name – it has links to Spain and Portugal, too, and there are several variations of the name, the most common of which is ‘Thomas’.

Although you’ll struggle to find mentions of ‘Tomás’ in Irish mythology, you frequently see it in the Bible (Thomas was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus).

Irish baby boy names: Key info on the name Tómas

• How it’s pronounced: Tho-mas
• What it means: Twin
• Variations: Thomas
• Famous Tómass: Tomás MacDonagh (Irish revolutionary leader)

76. Toirdelbach (Turlough)

If you can say ‘Toirdelbach’ seven times in quick succession, you deserve a virtual pint!

Pronounced ‘Thur-lock’, the name ‘Toirdelbach’ is one of the more intimidating looking Celtic names for boys. You might be more familiar with the anglicised version of the name, which is ‘Turlough’.

One of the most notable ‘Toirdelbachs’ was a High King of Ireland named ‘Toirdelbach Ua Briain’, who spent 10 years battling his unle Donnchad before he took the powerful seat.

Unusual Celtic boy names: Key info on the name Toirdelbach

• How it’s pronounced: Thur-lock
• What it means: Prompting or instigator
• Variations: Turlough
• Famous Toirdelbachs: NA

FAQs about rare Celtic boy names

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘Which one means warrior?’ to ‘How do you pronounce them?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.