Irish Baby Names You Shouldn't Overlook

Honor the Emerald Isle by giving your child an Irish baby name. Here are some unique Irish baby names to choose from, as well as websites to help you choose the perfect name for your child from among all of the fine Irish baby names.

Irish Baby Names You Shouldn't Overlook - Girls

Alana - darling child

This is a beautiful Irish name for a beautiful little girl. When I think of Alana, I picture a sweet tempered Irish princess. The meaning, "darling child" is a wonderful gift to give to your new baby.

Bridget - power, vigor, virtue

I see Bridget as a fiery and spunky girl. Bridget takes charge and doesn't give in to peer pressure. She is the leader. Who wouldn't want their daughter to be virtuous like Bridget?

Iona - blessed

Iona is an Irish name that isn't very common in America. It reached the peak of its American popularity in 1910 as the 359th most popular name. Actually, this is a good thing! Iona is a classic sounding Irish name, but it isn't associated with Grandmas!

Kyna - love, affection, esteem

This is a lovely, short Irish baby name. You daughter isn't likely to have any other Kyna's in her class, but this Irish name is simple enough that she won't have to go through her life explaining how to pronounce it.

Irish Baby Names You Shouldn't Overlook - Boys

Ardan - high inspiration

If you like Aidan, but want something more unique, try Ardan. Both names have a similar Irish feel. To me, Ardan sounds even more Irish.

Davin - little deer

As of 2007, Davin ranks as the 581st most popular name for baby boys. This means that it isn't unusual enough to cause people to mispronounce it, but it is still unique enough that little Davin won't have to share his name with several classmates.

Desmond - one from Desmond

Desmond is poised for a come-back, thanks to the popular character on LOST. Desmond sounds like it would belong to an intelligent and sensitive young man.

Lorcan - silent or fierce

This may be my favorite of all the Irish baby names. It is unique and definitely sounds Irish. Lorcan seems like the strong and silent type.

Websites to Help You Find Irish Baby Names

Baby Names of Ireland

This website has both boy and girl Irish baby names. There are many unique names that I've never seen before.

In addition to names and meanings, you can also listen to the pronunciation of each name. This helps a lot as some of the Irish spellings are different than what we are used to in America. I loved listening to the beautiful Irish names as I clicked on each one.

Baby Names of Ireland also includes a baby gift store and Irish legends to put you in the spirit for choosing the perfect Irish baby name.

Irish First Names

This website has a list of the Top 100 Irish Baby Names for Girls as well as the Top 100 Irish Baby Names for Boys. Theses lists also include the Gaelic equivalent for the popular modern baby names in Ireland.

These lists can help parents who are not sure where to start or are looking for Irish baby names that are more Americanized.

Sources

Baby Names of Ireland, http://www.babynamesofireland.com/

NameVoyager, http://www.babynamewizard.com/voyager#prefix=IONA&ms=false&sw=f&exact=false