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| Abán | Little abbot. It was the name os St. Abbán mac ua Cormaic. (English version is Abban). |
| Abbán | Little abbot. It was the name os St. Abbán mac ua Cormaic. His feast day is March 16th. (English version is Abban). |
| Adhamhán | The timorous one. This was the name of one of the most famous abbots of Iona. His feast day is September 23rd. (English version is Eunan). |
| Adomnán | The timorous one. This was the name of one of the most famous abbots of Iona. His feast day is September 23rd. (English version is Eunan). |
| Áed | Fire. One of the most common names in early Ireland and several saints bore the name as well as at least four High Kings. (English version is Hugh although it has no connection with this name). |
| Áedán | Diminutive form of Áedh. This name was common in early Ireland. St. Aodhán studied in Wales under St. David where he compleated many miracles.He then returned to Ferns where he created a monastery. His feast day is January 31st. (English version is Aidan). |
| Aedh | A flame of fire. (English version is Hugh). |
| Áeducán | Diminutive form of Áedh which was quite common in early Ireland. One of the people bearing this name was Aodhagán Ó Raithile the last of the great Munster poets born in Kerry in 1670. He is buried in Muckross Abbey (English version is Egan). |
| Aenghus | A chosen one. |
| Áengus | Sole strength. From Óengus.(English version is Angus). |
| Aibhe | The gentle one ( English version is Alby or Albert). |
| Aidan | A Diminutive of Aed(h). (English version is Hugh). |
| Ailbe | Male or female name from the old root albho, white.The most famous male user of the name was St Ailbhe of Tipperary who lived at the time of St. Patrick. He died in 527 and his saints day is September 12th. (English male version is Alby). |
| Ailbhe | Male or female name from the old root albho, white.The most famous male user of the name was St Ailbhe of Tipperary who lived at the time of St. Patrick. He died in 527 and his saints day is September 12th. (English male version is Alby). |
| Ailín | Of gentle birth ( English version is Allen or Alan). |
| Alby | Male or female name from the old root albho, white. (English male version is Alby). |
| Amhlaoibh | Norse in origin. Ancestral relic. (Olaf). |
| Andreas | (English version is Andrew). |
| Angus | Anglicised form of Aenghus. |
| Antoine | Made a popular name by st Anthony of Padua who died in 1231. the name was brought to Ireland by the Franks. (English version is of course Anthony). |
| Aodh | As Áed Fire. One of the most common names in early Ireland and several saints bore the name as well as at least four High Kings. (English version is Hugh although it has no connection with this name). |
| Aodhagán | Diminutive form of Áedh which was quite common in early Ireland. One of the people bearing this name was Aodhagán Ó Raithile the last of the great Munster poets born in Kerry in 1670. He is buried in Muckross Abbey (English version is Egan). |
| Aodhán | Diminutive form of Áedh. This name was common in early Ireland. St. Aodhán studied in Wales under St. David where he compleated many miracles.He then returned to Ferns where he created a monastery. His feast day is January 31st. (English version is Aidan). |
| Aoghgan | Diminutive form of Áedh which was quite common in early Ireland. One of the people bearing this name was Aodhagán Ó Raithile the last of the great Munster poets born in Kerry in 1670. He is buried in Muckross Abbey (English version is Egan). |
| Aralt | (English version is Harold) |
| Art | Stone champion or bear. (English version is also Art as it has no connection with the name Arthur). |
| Artagán | Little Art |
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| Bairre | Male or female name. It was the name of several Saints both male and female It means Fair-haired or fair-headed. Irish variations include Bairre, Barre and Barra. (English version would be Barrin or the more common pet-version Barry). |
| Bairrfhionn | Male or female name. It was the name of several Saints both male and female It means Fair-haired or fair-headed. Irish variations include Bairre, Barre and Barra. (English version would be Barrin or the more common pet-version Barry). |
| Barra | Male or female name. It was the name of several Saints both male and female It means Fair-haired or fair-headed. Irish variations include Bairre, Barre and Barra. (English version would be Barrin or the more common pet-version Barry). |
| Barre | Male or female name. It was the name of several Saints both male and female It means Fair-haired or fair-headed. Irish variations include Bairre, Barre and Barra. (English version would be Barrin or the more common pet-version Barry). |
| Barrfind | Male or female name. It was the name of several Saints both male and female It means Fair-haired or fair-headed. Irish variations include Bairre, Barre and Barra. (English version would be Barrin or the more common pet-version Barry). |
| Barrin | Male or female name. It was the name of several Saints both male and female It means Fair-haired or fair-headed. Irish variations include Bairre, Barre and Barra. (English version would be Barrin or the more common pet-version Barry). |
| Barry | Male or female name. From Barfind or a male variation of Finnbarr.Both were saints names. It means Fair-haired or fair-headed. Irish variations include Bairre, Barre and Barra. (English version would be Barrin or the more common pet-version Barry). |
| Bearach | Pointed or sharp. Also Berach. there were several sints such as saint Berach who was an abbot in Bangor, County Down. His saints day is April 21st. (English version would be Berach) |
| Berach | Pointed or sharp. Also Bearach. there were several sints such as saint Berach who was an abbot in Bangor, County Down. His saints day is April 21st. (English version would be Berach) |
| Bóroimhe | Boru |
| Breandán | It is thought this name comes from the Welsh breenhin meaning Prince. It is also thought it came back into Ireland from the Latin Brendanus. St Breandán better known maybe as Breandán the navigator was the most famous bearer of the name. He died in 577 and his feast day is May 16th. (English version is Brendan). |
| Brénainn | It is thought this name comes from the Welsh breenhin meaning Prince. It is also thought it came back into Ireland from the Latin Brendanus. St Breandán better known maybe as Breandán the navigator was the most famous bearer of the name. He died in 577 and his feast day is May 16th. (English version is Brendan). |
| Brian | It is not known precisily where this name originates from. Some think it is from the Breton, others think it comes from the Irish name Brion which means noble or high. the most famous bearer of the name is Brian Boru who became a national hero at the battle of Clontarf on Good Friday 1014 in which he sadly died. (English versions are Brian, Bryan Bernard). |
| Bróccán | There were several saints called this name. The most famous bearer of the name was a scribe of St. Patrick who recorded the Saints meeting with the Fianna. (There is no English form). |
| Brógán | There were several saints called this name. The most famous bearer of the name was a scribe of St. Patrick who recorded the Saints meeting with the Fianna. (There is no English form). |
| Buadhach | Conqueror. (English version is Victor). |
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| Cáemgen | Version of Caoimhín. Sweet offspring, Comely child. The best known saint of this name was Caoimhín of Glendalough, (Saint Kevin), who after training in County Dublin took himself to an area by a lake in County Wicklow- Glendalough. He started out living as a hermit but people flocked to him and the monastery grew, finally becoming a place of pilgrimage. A pilgrimage there was considered equivalent to one to Rome. He died in 620 and his Feast day is June 3rd. (English version is Kevin ). |
| Cahán | Both a male and female name. From Cath meaning a battle. A male who bore the name and gave it to the O'Cahan (O'Kane) family in County Derry, was said to be a son of Eoghan, grandson of Niall of the Nine Hostages (The English version would be Cahan or Kane as in the surname). |
| Cahir | Thought to mean battle-lord. One bearer of the name was Cathaír Mar who is credited with having fathered thirty-three sons and reigning over Leinster for fifty years.(English version is Cahir). |
| Cairell | No one knows where this name comes from but it was borne by several saints including St Cairell of Tír Róis. His saints day is June 13th. (The English versions would be Kerill or Karel). |
| Calbhach | Meaning bald. It was a popular name in some families, especially the O'Donnells in the later middle ages.(The English version is Calvagh). |
| Calvagh | Meaning bald. It was a popular name in some families, especially the O'Donnells in the later middle ages.(The English version is Calvagh). |
| Caoimhín | Sweet offspring, Comely child. The best known saint of this name was Caoimhín of Glendalough, (Saint Kevin), who after training in County Dublin took himself to an area by a lake in County Wicklow- Glendalough. He started out living as a hermit but people flocked to him and the monastery grew, finally becoming a place of pilgrimage. A pilgrimage there was considered equivalent to one to Rome. He died in 620 and his Feast day is June 3rd. (English version is Kevin ). |
| Caroll | Brave in fighting or Valorous in Battle. Cerball mac Muirecáin was one of three kings who was married to Gormlaith. It was also the name of the fifth President of Ireland- Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh. He served two sessions as Attorney General and was Chief Justice in 1961 he was chosen as President in 1974. He died in Dublin in 1978. (English version is Carroll). |
| Cathaír | Thought to mean battle-lord. One bearer of the name was Cathaír Mar who is credited with having fathered thirty-three sons and reigning over Leinster for fifty years.(English version is Cahir). |
| Cathal | Strong in battle. It was the name of Kings in Connacht and Munster. (English version is Cathal, some think Charles is also a good translation but Charles has no connection with the name Cathal). |
| Cathán | Both a male and female name. From Cath meaning a battle. A male who bore the name and gave it to the O'Cahan (O'Kane) family in County Derry, was said to be a son of Eoghan, grandson of Niall of the Nine Hostages (The English version would be Cahan or Kane as in the surname). |
| Cathaoir | Thought to mean battle-lord. One bearer of the name was Cathaír Mar who is credited with having fathered thirty-three sons and reigning over Leinster for fifty years.(English version is Cahir). |
| Ceallach | Both a male and female name. It means Bright-headed. It is recored that in the case of a post-natal baptism either Flann or Cellach should be used as the names are common to both male and female. Otherwise in history it was more used by males with several saints bearing it, and also several Leinster kings. (English versions are Kelly or Kellach). |
| Cellach | Both a male and female name. It means Bright-headed. It is recored that in the case of a post-natal baptism either Flann or Cellach should be used as the names are common to both male and female. Otherwise in history it was more used by males with several saints bearing it, and also several Leinster kings. (English versions are Kelly or Kellach). |
| Cerball | Brave in fighting or Valorous in Battle. Cerball mac Muirecáin was one of three kings who was married to Gormlaith. It was also the name of the fifth President of Ireland- Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh. He served two sessions as Attorney General and was Chief Justice in 1961 he was chosen as President in 1974. He died in Dublin in 1978. (English version is Carroll). |
| Cerbhall | Brave in fighting or Valorous in Battle. Cerball mac Muirecáin was one of three kings who was married to Gormlaith. It was also the name of the fifth President of Ireland- Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh. He served two sessions as Attorney General and was Chief Justice in 1961 he was chosen as President in 1974. He died in Dublin in 1978. (English version is Carroll). |
| Cian | Means Ancient or Enduring.The name of several legendary figures.( English versions are Kean, Kian and Cain). |
| Ciarán | From ciar meaning Black.
There were a few saints of this name. The
best known was Ciarán from County Offaly. After
studying in Europe he founded a monastery in the Slieve Bloom Mountains.
It ended up being the burial place for the kings of
Ossary. His Saints Day is March 5th. Another Saint Ciarán from Clonmacnoise, County Offaly also founded a sucessful monastery. His feast day is September 9th. (English version is Kieran). |
| Cilléne | Probably derived from cill meaning Church. There were several saints of this name. The best known who went as a missionary to Artois has his feast day on November 13th. (English versions are Cillian or Kilian). |
| Cillian | Probably derived from cill meaning Church. There were several saints of this name. The best known who went as a missionary to Artois has his feast day on November 13th. (English versions are Cillian or Kilian). |
| Cillín | Probably derived from cill meaning Church. There were several saints of this name. The best known who went as a missionary to Artois has his feast day on November 13th. (English versions are Cillian or Kilian). |
| Cináed | It is thought that this name was Pictish in origin and was borrowed into Old Irish. It was the name of a High King who was slain in 727.(English version is Kenneth). |
| Cináeth | It is thought that this name was Pictish in origin and was borrowed into Old Irish. It was the name of a High King who was slain in 727.(English version is Kenneth). |
| Cionaodh | It is thought that this name was Pictish in origin and was borrowed into Old Irish. It was the name of a High King who was slain in 727.(English version is Kenneth). |
| Cionáoth | It is thought that this name was Pictish in origin and was borrowed into Old Irish. It was the name of a High King who was slain in 727.(English version is Kenneth). |
| Cóilín | The name comes from Col, a French diminutive of Nicholas, brought in by the Franks or Anglo-Normans. St Nicholas is the best known bearer of the name, otherwise known as Santa Claus There are churches dedicated to him in Galway. (The English version is Colin). |
| Coireall | No one knows where this name comes from but it was borne by several saints including St Cairell of Tír Róis. His saints day is June 13th. (The English versions would be Kerill or Karel). |
| Colin | The name comes from Col, a French diminutive of Nicholas, brought in by the Franks or Anglo-Normans. St Nicholas is the best known bearer of the name, otherwise known as Santa Claus There are churches dedicated to him in Galway. (The English version is Colin). |
| Colm | Both a boys and girls name.Means Dove. The best known Saint with the name was known as Colmcille (Colm of the Rock).He founded a string of monasteries in Ireland, including one that became modern Londonderry, and others at Kells,County Offaly and Moone, County Kildare.He died in 597 in Iona. His feast day is June 9th.(English versions are Colum, Colman or Columba). |
| Colmán | A form of Colm meaning Dove.It was the name of nearly 250 saints.(English version is Colman). |
| Comgal | Means Fellow hostage. It was the name of several saints, one of whom, St. Comhghall of Bangor, County Down, founded a monastery there after studying in County Laois under Saint Fintan. He founded the monastery in about 555, and it flourished becoming known as the Vale of Angels. He died in 601 or 602, and his feast day is May 10th. (The Engllish version would be Cowal, which indicates how the name is pronounced in Irish too). |
| Comhghall | Means Fellow hostage. It was the name of several saints, one of whom, St. Comhghall of Bangor, County Down, founded a monastery there after studying in County Laois under Saint Fintan. He founded the monastery in about 555, and it flourished becoming known as the Vale of Angels. He died in 601 or 602, and his feast day is May 10th. (The Engllish version would be Cowal, which indicates how the name is pronounced in Irish too). |
| Conall | Means Tall and strong. or Strong as a wolf. There are several saints of the name as well as heros of ancient legends. One of the most interesting was the Conall who gave his name to Cinél Conaill which became Tír Conaill or Tirconnel which is the County of Donegal.(English versions are Conall or Connell). |
| Conán | Means Wolf or Hound. It is recorded as the name of one of Fionn's Fianna, as well as six or so saints. The best known though must be the Conan in Conan the Barbarian movie. ( The English version is Conan). |
| Conchobar | High desire, wolf-lover or Hound-lover. The most famous bearer of the name was a King of the Ulaid or Ulstermen. He was due to wed Deirdre when she eloped with Naoise. Conchobhar's jealousy led to Naoise's dea and Deirdres suicide.(English version is Connor or Conor ). |
| Conchobhar | High desire, wolf-lover or Hound-lover. The most famous bearer of the name was a King of the Ulaid or Ulstermen. He was due to wed Deirdre when she eloped with Naoise. Conchobhar's jealousy led to Naoise's dea and Deirdres suicide.(English version is Connor or Conor ). |
| Conchur | High desire. (English versions are Connor, or Cornelius). |
| Conláed | From connia meaning chaste and áedh meaning fire. St Conláed was the first Bishop appointed by Saint Brigit for her church at Kildare. It had initially been set up as a nunnery but eventually there was a monastery too under an abbot. They shared a common church. He was supposedly killed by wolves and his feast day is May 3rd. (English versions are Conleth or Conley). |
| Conlaodh | From connia meaning chaste and áedh meaning fire. St Conláed was the first Bishop appointed by Saint Brigit for her church at Kildare. It had initially been set up as a nunnery but eventually there was a monastery too under an abbot. They shared a common church. He was supposedly killed by wolves and his feast day is May 3rd. (English versions are Conleth or Conley). |
| Conleth | From connia meaning chaste and áedh meaning fire. St Conláed was the first Bishop appointed by Saint Brigit for her church at Kildare. It had initially been set up as a nunnery but eventually there was a monastery too under an abbot. They shared a common church. He was supposedly killed by wolves and his feast day is May 3rd. (English versions are Conleth or Conley). |
| Conley | From connia meaning chaste and áedh meaning fire. St Conláed was the first Bishop appointed by Saint Brigit for her church at Kildare. It had initially been set up as a nunnery but eventually there was a monastery too under an abbot. They shared a common church. He was supposedly killed by wolves and his feast day is May 3rd. (English versions are Conleth or Conley). |
| Conor | High desire, wolf-lover or Hound-lover. The most famous bearer of the name was a King of the Ulaid or Ulstermen. He was due to wed Deirdre when she eloped with Naoise. Conchobhar's jealousy led to Naoise's dea and Deirdres suicide.(English version is Connor or Conor ). |
| Conn | Meaning Intelligence. (English version is Constantine). |
| Connell | Means Tall and strong. or Strong as a wolf. There are several saints of the name as well as heros of ancient legends. One of the most interesting was the Conall who gave his name to Cinél Conaill which became Tír Conaill or Tirconnel which is the County of Donegal.(English versions are Conall or Connell). |
| Connor | High desire, wolf-lover or Hound-lover. The most famous bearer of the name was a King of the Ulaid or Ulstermen. He was due to wed Deirdre when she eloped with Naoise. Conchobhar's jealousy led to Naoise's dea and Deirdres suicide.(English version is Connor or Conor ). |
| Cormac | From Corb meaning defile and marc which means son. Many leaders of early important Irish families bore the name. One was the famous Cormac Mac Carthaig, associated with Cashel in Ciounty Tipperary. He was king of Munster. Another bearer was a king and bishop -Cormac mac Cuilennáin He was killed in battle in 908 and buried in Castledermot, County Kildare. (English version is Cormac, or sometimes Charles is used). |
| Cowal | Means Fellow hostage. It was the name of several saints, one of whom, St. Comhghall of Bangor, County Down, founded a monastery there after studying in County Laois under Saint Fintan. He founded the monastery in about 555, and it flourished becoming known as the Vale of Angels. He died in 601 or 602, and his feast day is May 10th. (The Engllish version would be Cowal, which indicates how the name is pronounced in Irish too). |
| Criostóir | From the Greek: meaning Christ-bearing. (English version is Christopher). |
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| Daibhead | This from the biblical David. There are also associations with Wales and Saint David. Welsh church terms such as llan appear in early Christian Irish place names. On High Crosses the representations of harpists are often thought to be David. The usual form today is Dáibhí. (The english version is David). |
| Dáibhí | This from the biblical David. There are also associations with Wales and Saint David. Welsh church terms such as llan appear in early Christian Irish place names. On High Crosses the representations of harpists are often thought to be David. The usual form today is Dáibhí. (The english version is David). |
| Daig | Means Flame or Fire. A saint with the name died in 587 and his feast day is August 18th. He was Saint Daigh of Inishkeen, County Louth. (There is no English form of the name). |
| Daigh | Means Flame or Fire. A saint with the name died in 587 and his feast day is August 18th. He was Saint Daigh of Inishkeen, County Louth. (There is no English form of the name). |
| Daimhín | From dam meaning Ox or Deer. A king, Daimín Daimairgit, died in 564. (English form would be Davin. Damien could also come from this name). |
| Daimíne | From dam meaning Ox or Deer. A king, Daimín Daimairgit, died in 564. (English form would be Davin. Damien could also come from this name). |
| Dáire | Means Fertile or Fruitful. It may have been the name of a bull-god or fertility God of some kind. (English verssions are Darragh or Derry). |
| Daithi | (English version is David) . |
| Damien | From dam meaning Ox or Deer. A king, Daimín Daimairgit, died in 564. (English form would be Davin. Damien could also come from this name). |
| Darragh | Means Fertile or Fruitful. It may have been the name of a bull-god or fertility God of some kind. (English verssions are Darragh or Derry). |
| Davin | From dam meaning Ox or Deer. A king, Daimín Daimairgit, died in 564. (English form would be Davin. Damien could also come from this name). |
| Deaglán | Deaglán of Ardmore was a saint with this name. His saints day is July 24th. (English version is Declan) |
| Deasún | Man of South Munster. It was a popular name with the koings of Desmond, the Mac Carthys, and also the Earls of Desmond the FitzGeralds. (English version is Desmond). |
| Declán | Means Fertile or Fruitful. It may have been the name of a bull-god or fertility God of some kind. (English verssion is Declan). |
| Dermot | A freeman.Diarmait úa Duibne was the hero in one
of Ireland most famous love stories, that of Diarmaid and
Gráinne.It has also been the name of
several Irish Kings. (English version is Dermot). |
| Desmond | Man of South Munster. It was a popular name with the koings of Desmond, the Mac Carthys, and also the Earls of Desmond the FitzGeralds. (English version is Desmond which funnily enough has been re-translated back into Irish as Deasún). |
| Desmumhnach | Man of South Munster. It was a popular name with the koings of Desmond, the Mac Carthys, and also the Earls of Desmond the FitzGeralds. (English version is Desmond which funnily enough has been re-translated back into Irish as Deasún). |
| Diarmaid | A freeman.Diarmait úa Duibne was the hero in one
of Ireland most famous love stories, that of Diarmaid and
Gráinne.It has also been the name of
several Irish Kings. (English version is Dermot). |
| Diarmait | A freeman.Diarmait úa Duibne was the hero in one
of Ireland most famous love stories, that of Diarmaid and
Gráinne.It has also been the name of
several Irish Kings. (English version is Dermot). |
| Domhnall | Power of the deep, or world mighty. It was a popular name in early Ireland. There were five high kings with the name, as well as at least three saints. (English versions are Donald, Donal and Daniel ). |
| Domnall | Power of the deep, or world mighty. It was a popular name in early Ireland. There were five high kings with the name, as well as at least three saints. (English versions are Donald, Donal and Daniel ). |
| Donagh | From donn meaning Brown and lord. Brian Boru had a son with this name. A High King Donnchad in 939 comissioned the metal shrine for the Book of Armagh (English versions are Donagh, Donough, Denis or Duncan). |
| Dónal | Power of the deep, or world mighty. It was a popular name in early Ireland. There were five high kings with the name, as well as at least three saints. (English versions are Donald, Donal and Daniel ). |
| Donncha | From donn meaning Brown and lord. Brian Boru had a son with this name. A High King Donnchad in 939 comissioned the metal shrine for the Book of Armagh (English versions are Donagh, Donough, Denis or Duncan). |
| Donnchad | From donn meaning Brown and lord. Brian Boru had a son with this name. A High King Donnchad in 939 comissioned the metal shrine for the Book of Armagh (English versions are Donagh, Donough, Denis or Duncan). |
| Donnchadh | From donn meaning Brown and lord. Brian Boru had a son with this name. A High King Donnchad in 939 comissioned the metal shrine for the Book of Armagh (English versions are Donagh, Donough, Denis or Duncan). |
| Dougal | Dark or black foreigner. It was used by the Irish on the vikings. It was also used by the Irish themselves. In the Battle of Clontarf ,1014,Dubhgall, son of Amlaimh was killed. (English version is Dougal). |
| Douglas | From dubh meaning Black and glas meaning
Blue. This name was particularly popular in Scotland, but one famous Irish bearer of the name was Douglas Hyde, the first Irish President. He was born in 1860 and was educated in Trinity college, Dublin. After a year inCanada, he wrote a few books and helped found the Gaelic League in 1893 and became its first President. He was first Professor of modern Irish in University College, Dublin. When the position of President of Ireland was created by the Constitution in 1937, he held the post till 1945. He died in 1949. (English version is Douglas). |
| Duald | Dark-limbed or black-jointed. The most famous bearer of the name was Dubultach Mac Fir Bisigh was born in the 1590's. He was a historian, having studied law and history, and made a copy of the Annals and Ossory of Leinster during this time. He lost his family estate in the wars of 1641-1643, and moved to Galway.He also studied genealogy. Back in Dublin he translated many important Irish documents, including an important manuscript written in Clonmacnoise called Chonicon Scotorum. He was sadly killed in 1670 in a fight in an Inn. (English versions of the name are Dualta or Duald). |
| Dualtach | Dark-limbed or black-jointed. The most famous bearer of the name was Dubultach Mac Fir Bisigh was born in the 1590's. He was a historian, having studied law and history, and made a copy of the Annals and Ossory of Leinster during this time. He lost his family estate in the wars of 1641-1643, and moved to Galway.He also studied genealogy. Back in Dublin he translated many important Irish documents, including an important manuscript written in Clonmacnoise called Chonicon Scotorum. He was sadly killed in 1670 in a fight in an Inn. (English versions of the name are Dualta or Duald). |
| Dubaltach | Dark-limbed or black-jointed. The most famous bearer of the name was Dubultach Mac Fir Bisigh was born in the 1590's. He was a historian, having studied law and history, and made a copy of the Annals and Ossory of Leinster during this time. He lost his family estate in the wars of 1641-1643, and moved to Galway.He also studied genealogy. Back in Dublin he translated many important Irish documents, including an important manuscript written in Clonmacnoise called Chonicon Scotorum. He was sadly killed in 1670 in a fight in an Inn. (English versions of the name are Dualta or Duald). |
| Dubgall | Dark or black foreigner. It was used by the Irish on the vikings. It was also used by the Irish themselves. In the Battle of Clontarf ,1014,Dubhgall, son of Amlaimh was killed. (English version is Dougal). |
| Dubghall | Dark or black foreigner. It was used by the Irish on the vikings. It was also used by the Irish themselves. In the Battle of Clontarf ,1014,Dubhgall, son of Amlaimh was killed. (English version is Dougal). |
| Dubhaltach | Dark-limbed or black-jointed. The most famous bearer of the name was Dubultach Mac Fir Bisigh was born in the 1590's. He was a historian, having studied law and history, and made a copy of the Annals and Ossory of Leinster during this time. He lost his family estate in the wars of 1641-1643, and moved to Galway.He also studied genealogy. Back in Dublin he translated many important Irish documents, including an important manuscript written in Clonmacnoise called Chonicon Scotorum. He was sadly killed in 1670 in a fight in an Inn. (English versions of the name are Dualta or Duald). |
| Dubhghal | The black one. (English version is Dougall). |
| Dubhghlas | From dubh meaning Black and glas meaning
Blue. This name was particularly popular in Scotland, but one famous Irish bearer of the name was Douglas Hyde, the first Irish President. He was born in 1860 and was educated in Trinity college, Dublin. After a year inCanada, he wrote a few books and helped found the Gaelic League in 1893 and became its first President. He was first Professor of modern Irish in University College, Dublin. When the position of President of Ireland was created by the Constitution in 1937, he held the post till 1945. He died in 1949. (English version is Douglas). |
| Dudley | Dark-limbed or black-jointed. The most famous bearer of the name was Dubultach Mac Fir Bisigh was born in the 1590's. He was a historian, having studied law and history, and made a copy of the Annals and Ossory of Leinster during this time. He lost his family estate in the wars of 1641-1643, and moved to Galway.He also studied genealogy. Back in Dublin he translated many important Irish documents, including an important manuscript written in Clonmacnoise called Chonicon Scotorum. He was sadly killed in 1670 in a fight in an Inn. (English versions of the name are Dualta or Duald). |
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| Éamann | From the Anglo-Saxon meaning Blessed protection. It was introduced into Ireland by the Anglo-Normans. Éamon de Valera one of the best known bearers of the name was actually born in New York in 1882 of a Spanish father and Irish mother. In 1884 he was sent to Ireland when his father died, and was reared by his grandmother. In 1908 he joined the Gaelic League, and in 1913 the Volunteers. He took part in the Easter rising and afterwards was sentenced to death. However he was reprieved and later released in 1917.He was elected President in 1919 in the first Dáil Éireann. In 1926 he founded the Fianna Fáil party because he wanted to make Irish independence a reality. In 1959 he was elected President of Ireland, a position he held for fourteen years. In 1975 he died. (English version is Edmund). |
| Éamonn | From the Anglo-Saxon meaning Blessed protection. It was introduced into Ireland by the Anglo-Normans. Éamon de Valera one of the best known bearers of the name was actually born in New York in 1882 of a Spanish father and Irish mother. In 1884 he was sent to Ireland when his father died, and was reared by his grandmother. In 1908 he joined the Gaelic League, and in 1913 the Volunteers. He took part in the Easter rising and afterwards was sentenced to death. However he was reprieved and later released in 1917.He was elected President in 1919 in the first Dáil Éireann. In 1926 he founded the Fianna Fáil party because he wanted to make Irish independence a reality. In 1959 he was elected President of Ireland, a position he held for fourteen years. In 1975 he died. (English version is Edmund). |
| Éanna | Means Birdlike, probably from medieval roots. The most famous Énnae was Énnae of Aran, born to a chieftan father in County Meath he took over the clan until his sister persuaded him to enter the church. When he reeturned to Ireland he founded a church on the largest of the Aran Islands, Inishmore. His feast day is march 21st. (English version is Enda). |
| Edmond | From the Anglo-Saxon meaning Blessed protection. It was introduced into Ireland by the Anglo-Normans. Éamon de Valera one of the best known bearers of the name was actually born in New York in 1882 of a Spanish father and Irish mother. In 1884 he was sent to Ireland when his father died, and was reared by his grandmother. In 1908 he joined the Gaelic League, and in 1913 the Volunteers. He took part in the Easter rising and afterwards was sentenced to death. However he was reprieved and later released in 1917.He was elected President in 1919 in the first Dáil Éireann. In 1926 he founded the Fianna Fáil party because he wanted to make Irish independence a reality. In 1959 he was elected President of Ireland, a position he held for fourteen years. In 1975 he died. (English version is Edmund). |
| Egan | Diminutive form of Áedh which was quite common in early Ireland. One of the people bearing this name was Aodhagán Ó Raithile the last of the great Munster poets born in Kerry in 1670. He is buried in Muckross Abbey (English version is Egan). |
| Éimhín | This name is both male and female. It probably comes from éim meaning prompt or ready.The best known bearer of the name is St. Éimhín, one of six brothers who all went into religious life. He founded a monastery known now as Monasterevan, Co. Kildare. He died in 689 and was buried there. His feast day is December 22nd. (English versions are Evin or Evan). |
| Eirnín | This is both a male and a female name. It comes from iarn meaning iron. There were sixteen saints of this name of whom little is known. One virgin saint has a feast day on February 28th while St Eirnín Cass (The curly-haired) was associated with Leighlin in County Carlow. (English version is Ernin). |
| Émíne | This name is both male and female. It probably comes from éim meaning prompt or ready.The best known bearer of the name is St. Éimhín, one of six brothers who all went into religious life. He founded a monastery known now as Monasterevan, Co. Kildare. He died in 689 and was buried there. His feast day is December 22nd. (English versions are Evin or Evan). |
| Enda | Means Birdlike, probably from medieval roots. The most famous Énnae was Énnae of Aran, born to a chieftan father in County Meath he took over the clan until his sister persuaded him to enter the church. When he reeturned to Ireland he founded a church on the largest of the Aran Islands, Inishmore. His feast day is march 21st. (English version is Enda). |
| Énnae | Means Birdlike, probably from medieval roots. The most famous Énnae was Énnae of Aran, born to a chieftan father in County Meath he took over the clan until his sister persuaded him to enter the church. When he reeturned to Ireland he founded a church on the largest of the Aran Islands, Inishmore. His feast day is march 21st. (English version is Enda). |
| Eógan | A very popular early Irish name. It means born of the yew or well born.It was so popular with the early tribes that the name is used in that of County Tyrone, Tír Eoghain. Eoghan of Ardstraw was a saint who studied at Clones before being captured by pirates. He was taken to Britain but managed to escape and continue his studies, in Galloway. He returned to Ireland and founded the Kilnamanagh monastery near Tallaght, then his monastery at Ardstraw. His feast day is August 23rd. (English versions are Eugene and Owen ,although Eugene comes from a greek name in its own right). |
| Eoin | From the biblical name of Johannes. In Hebrew it means gift of god . Naomh Eoin = St. John.One famous bearer of the name was Eoin MacNeill who was born in County Antrim in 1867. He helped to found the Gaelic League in 1893. He became a professor of early Irish history at U.C.D. in 1908. He was elected chairman of a council that formed the Irish Volunteers in 1913, later he was Chief of Staff. He was against military action and tried to stop the 1916 rising. After the surrender he was sentenced to penal servitude for life. He supported the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921 and became the first Minister for Education in the Irish Free State. He tired of politics and went back to his history studies, becoming chairman of the Irish Manuscripts Commission in 1927. He printed several notable historic books. (English version is John;). |
| Eoghan | A very popular early Irish name. It means born of the yew or well born.It was so popular with the early tribes that the name is used in that of County Tyrone, Tír Eoghain. Eoghan of Ardstraw was a saint who studied at Clones before being captured by pirates. He was taken to Britain but managed to escape and continue his studies, in Galloway. He returned to Ireland and founded the Kilnamanagh monastery near Tallaght, then his monastery at Ardstraw. His feast day is August 23rd. (English versions are Eugene and Owen ,although Eugene comes from a greek name in its own right). |
| Ernin | This is both a male and a female name. It comes from iarn meaning iron. There were sixteen saints of this name of whom little is known. One virgin saint has a feast day on February 28th while St Eirnín Cass (The curly-haired) was associated with Leighlin in County Carlow. (English version is Ernin). |
| Erníne | This is both a male and a female name. It comes from iarn meaning iron. There were sixteen saints of this name of whom little is known. One virgin saint has a feast day on February 28th while St Eirnín Cass (The curly-haired) was associated with Leighlin in County Carlow. (English version is Ernin). |
| Eunan | The timorous one. This was the name of one of the most famous abbots of Iona. His feast day is September 23rd. (English version is Eunan). |
| Evin | This name is both male and female. It probably comes from éim meaning prompt or ready.The best known bearer of the name is St. Éimhín, one of six brothers who all went into religious life. He founded a monastery known now as Monasterevan, Co. Kildare. He died in 689 and was buried there. His feast day is December 22nd. (English versions are Evin or Evan). |
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| Faelán | This name means wolf. One bearer of the name was
St. Faolán. He was from Ulster and had
been baptised by St Ibhor and joined his monastery.
One night a servant came to his darkened cell to call him
for his meal and saw that the only light
source in the cell was coming from the Saints
left hand which was giving out enough light for
him to write with the right hand. He went to Scotland as a missionary and there are several churches dedicated to him there. His feast day is 9th January. (In Scotland he is known as Fillan and this is probably a good English form of the name). |
| Faolán | This name means wolf. One bearer of the name was
St. Faolán. He was from Ulster and had
been baptised by St Ibhor and joined his monastery.
One night a servant came to his darkened cell to call him
for his meal and saw that the only light
source in the cell was coming from the Saints
left hand which was giving out enough light for
him to write with the right hand. He went to Scotland as a missionary and there are several churches dedicated to him there. His feast day is 9th January. (In Scotland he is known as Fillan and this is probably a good English form of the name). |
| Fear | A Man |
| Fearghal | Connected with fear meaning manly. It was a popular name in early Ireland. Fergal mac Máeldúin who became king in 709. He killed Indrechtach son of Murchad King of Connacht. He also killed Conall Grant in 717 the winner at the battle of Kells and is also recorded as having wasted Leinster and got hostages and money from them before he himself was killed by Murchad mac Brian. (English form is Fergal). |
| Fearghall | Bravest of the brave.Connected with
fear meaning manly. It was a popular
name in early Ireland. Fergal mac Máeldúin who
became king in 709. He killed Indrechtach son of Murchad
King of Connacht. He also killed Conall Grant in 717 the winner at the battle
of Kells and is also recorded as having wasted Leinster and got hostages
and money from them before he himself was killed by Murchad mac Brian.
(English versions are Fergal, and Virgil). |
| Fearghus | The choicest one or strength of a man.
It was a common name in early Ireland and at least ten saints
bore the name. The most well known bearer of the name was Fergus mac Róich the one time king of Ulster. He was duped out of his kingship in favour of Conchobhar but seemed content enough to serve under him. Conchobhar then sent him to try to presuade Deirdre, whom Conchobhar had hoped to marry , and Naoise, with whom she had eloped to return to Ireland under Fergus' protection. Conchobhar then had Naoise murdered while Fergus was absent, so Fergus went into exile. He ended up in refuge with Medb and Ailill who had been former enemies in the conflict between the men of Ireland and the Ulstermen. Medb and Ailill were eventually defeated because of a pact that existed between Fergus and Cú Chulainn never to meet in combat. (English versions are Fergus and Ferdinand). |
| Fechín | The roots of this name are from two sources. Fiach
meaning raven and the other meaning battle. The best known bearer of the name was one of several saints. He came from Westmeath. His first 'miracle' was to make water flow from dry ground in Sligo where he was being educated. He founded several monasteries, at Cong, County Mayo, and others at County Galway and County Louth. In one monastery two monks died of starvation and the others would have too if relief had not come from King Guaire of Connacht. He was able to repay this favour when the king's son came to visit. Rónán who had had bad headaches for years and visited countless Doctors prayed and through the prayers and blessings was restored to full health. Fechín died of plague in 664 or 665. His feast day is 20th January. (The English version is Fechin). |
| Fechíne | The roots of this name are from two sources. Fiach
meaning raven and the other meaning battle. The best known bearer of the name was one of several saints. He came from Westmeath. His first 'miracle' was to make water flow from dry ground in Sligo where he was being educated. He founded several monasteries, at Cong, County Mayo, and others at County Galway and County Louth. In one monastery two monks died of starvation and the others would have too if relief had not come from King Guaire of Connacht. He was able to repay this favour when the king's son came to visit. Rónán who had had bad headaches for years and visited countless Doctors prayed and through the prayers and blessings was restored to full health. Fechín died of plague in 664 0r 665. His feast day is 20th January. (The English version is Fechin). |
| Fedelmid | Means ever good. This is used both as a male
and female name. At least three early kings of Munster had the
name. A northern prince with the name was Sir Phelim O'Neill who in 1641
led an uprising in Ulster. They killed lots of the "planters" or settlers
in Ireland. He went on to be executed in 1653 for it. There are several saints with the name too, including Fedhlimidh of Kilmore, County Cavan whose mother was married four times and had six sons and one daughter taking up the religious life and becoming saints too. His feast day is 9th August. (The English version is Phelim or Felim for males and Fidelma for females). |
| Feidhelm | This is used both as a male and female name. This was a well used
name in ancient Ireland. At least three early kings of Munster had the
name. A northern prince with the name was Sir Phelim O'Neill who in 1641
led an uprising in Ulster. They killed lots of the "planters" or settlers
in Ireland. He went on to be executed in 1653 for it. There are several saints with the name too, including Fedhlimidh of Kilmore, County Cavan whose mother was married four times and had six sons and one daughter taking up the religious life and becoming saints too. His feast day is 9th August.(The English version is Phelim or Felim for males and Fidelma for females). |
| Feidhlimidh | Means ever good. This is used both as a male
and female name. At least three early kings of Munster had the
name. A northern prince with the name was Sir Phelim O'Neill who in 1641
led an uprising in Ulster. They killed lots of the "planters" or settlers
in Ireland. He went on to be executed in 1653 for it. There are several saints with the name too, including Fedhlimidh of Kilmore, County Cavan whose mother was married four times and had six sons and one daughter taking up the religious life and becoming saints too. His feast day is 9th August. (The English version is Phelim or Felim for males and Fidelma for females). |
| Felim | Means ever good. This is used both as a male
and female name. At least three early kings of Munster had the
name. A northern prince with the name was Sir Phelim O'Neill who in 1641
led an uprising in Ulster. They killed lots of the "planters" or settlers
in Ireland. He went on to be executed in 1653 for it. There are several saints with the name too, including Fedhlimidh of Kilmore, County Cavan whose mother was married four times and had six sons and one daughter taking up the religious life and becoming saints too. His feast day is 9th August. (The English version is Phelim or Felim for males and Fidelma for females). |
| Fergal | Connected with fear meaning manly. It was a popular name in early Ireland. Fergal mac Máeldúin who became king in 709. He killed Indrechtach son of Murchad King of Connacht. He also killed Conall Grant in 717 the winner at the battle of Kells and is also recorded as having wasted Leinster and got hostages and money from them before he himself was killed by Murchad mac Brian. (English form is Fergal). |
| Fergus | The choicest one or strength of a man.
It was a common name in early Ireland and at least ten saints
bore the name. The most well known bearer of the name was Fergus mac Róich the one time king of Ulster. He was duped out of his kingship in favour of Conchobhar but seemed content enough to serve under him. Conchobhar then sent him to try to presuade Deirdre, whom Conchobhar had hoped to marry , and Naoise, with whom she had eloped to return to Ireland under Fergus' protection. Conchobhar then had Naoise murdered while Fergus was absent, so Fergus went into exile. He ended up in refuge with Medb and Ailill who had been former enemies in the conflict between the men of Ireland and the Ulstermen. Medb and Ailill were eventually defeated because of a pact that existed between Fergus and Cú Chulainn never to meet in combat. (English versions are Fergus and Ferdinand). |
| Fiachra | Means battle-king. One of the bearers of this
name was one of the children of Lir. He was son of Lir, king
of the sea and his first wife Aobh. His brother and two sisters
were turned into swans by Lir's second wife Aoife, Aobh's sister. They
had to fly around Ireland until Christianity came to Ireland. One saint with the name was St Fiachra from County Kilkenny, who gave the last rites to St. Comhghall of Bangor. He brought his arm back to be enshrined as a relic. He died in France in 670 at Meaux. His feast day is 8th February. (English version, also the French version, is Fiacre). |
| Finn | Bright an attribute of the sun god. Both a male and female
name. The best known bearer of the name was Finn mac Cumall. He was born Demna son of Cumal. He was sent to study under Finegas who wanted to catch the Salmon of Knowledge which lived in a pool on the River Boyne. Eventually he did catch the fish and gave it to Demna to cook. As he was preparing the fish he burnt himself and in sucking his wound he gained the Knowledge contined in it. As a consequence he was nicknamed Finn. He was made leader of the Fianna, a sort of Royal bodyguard, because he saved the palace at Tara from a demon. As leader of the Fianna he had many adventures. In old age he was given Gráinne as a wife. She not being too keen on marriage to an old man, eloped with Diarmaid.Finn chased after them giving us the story of the Pursuit of Diarmaid and Gráinne. (English version is Finn .) |
| Finnbarr | Means fair haired. The best known bearer of
this name was Saint Finnbarr of Cork. He was born son of a metal
worker. He preformed several miracles for Fachtna a king at the
time. He restored the kings sons sight. He also cured his mute daughter
and brought his wife back to life. As a display of his religious powers he caused a tree to bear nuts in the spring time. He formed a monastery near the source of the River Lee, before he formed another further downstream, near where Cork is today. He was consecrated in another miracle where angels raised him up and oil came from the ground covering the feet of all about. He died in 623 at Cloyne, and his body was put in a silver shrine in Cork. His feast day is 25th of September. (Irish pet names are Bairre or Barre. The usual english forms are Finbar or Finnbar, while Bairre becomes Barry in English). |
| Finnén | From finn meaning fair or pale coloured. One of
the best known saints of this name was Finian of Movilla.
He studied first at Galloway
in Scotland, and after a visit to Rome he founded
a monastery on Strangford Lough in County Down.He had a reputation
for excellence in education and attracted many pupils including
Colmcille. The high king at the time
made a judgment on copyright when Colmcille copied
Finian's manuscript. "To every cow its calf, to every book
its copy". Finians feast day is 10th September. (English version is Finnian or Finian). |
| Finnian | From finn meaning fair or pale coloured. One of
the best known saints of this name was Finian of Movilla.
He studied first at Galloway
in Scotland, and after a visit to Rome he founded
a monastery on Strangford Lough in County Down.He had a reputation
for excellence in education and attracted many pupils including
Colmcille. The high king at the time
made a judgment on copyright when Colmcille copied
Finian's manuscript. "To every cow its calf, to every book
its copy". Finians feast day is 10th September. (English version is Finnian or Finian). |
| Fintan | There are two possible meanings of this name;the white fire, or the white ancient. There are over 70 saints of this name. One saint was Fintan of Taghmon in County Wexford. A hermit taught him to read and write. He then studied at Bangor and visited Iona. He returned to Ireland and founded a monastery at Taughmon. He died in 635 and his feast day is October 21st.Another Saint Fintan lived in county Tipperary. He was known for recruiting disciples. He died in 603 and his feast day is February 17th.(English version is Fintan). |
| Fionn | Bright an attribute of the sun god. Both a male and female
name. The best known bearer of the name was Finn mac Cumall. He was born Demna son of Cumal. He was sent to study under Finegas who wanted to catch the Salmon of Knowledge which lived in a pool on the River Boyne. Eventually he did catch the fish and gave it to Demna to cook. As he was preparing the fish he burnt himself and in sucking his wound he gained the Knowledge contined in it. As a consequence he was nicknamed Finn. He was made leader of the Fianna, a sort of Royal bodyguard, because he saved the palace at Tara from a demon. As leader of the Fianna he had many adventures. In old age he was given Gráinne as a wife. She not being too keen on marriage to an old man, eloped with Diarmaid.Finn chased after them giving us the story of the Pursuit of Diarmaid and Gráinne. (English version is Finn .) |
| Fionnbharr | Means fair haired. The best known bearer of
this name was Saint Finnbarr of Cork. He was born son of a metal
worker. He preformed several miracles for Fachtna a king at the
time. He restored the kings sons sight. He also cured his mute daughter
and brought his wife back to life. As a display of his religious powers he caused a tree to bear nuts in the spring time. He formed a monastery near the source of the River Lee, before he formed another further downstream, near where Cork is today. He was consecrated in another miracle where angels raised him up and oil came from the ground covering the feet of all about. He died in 623 at Cloyne, and his body was put in a silver shrine in Cork. His feast day is 25th of September. (Irish pet names are Bairre or Barre. The usual english forms are Finbar or Finnbar, while Bairre becomes Barry in English) |
| Fiontan | There are two possible meanings of this name;the white fire, or the white ancient. There are over 70 saints of this name. One saint was Fintan of Taghmon in County Wexford. A hermit taught him to read and write. He then studied at Bangor and visited Iona. He returned to Ireland and founded a monastery at Taughmon. He died in 635 and his feast day is October 21st.Another Saint Fintan lived in county Tipperary. He was known for recruiting disciples. He died in 603 and his feast day is February 17th.(English version is Fintan). |
| Flann | This name is used for both girls and boys. It means red blood, or bright blood. One famous Flann was Flann Sinna King of Tara. He ruled for 36 years died in 916 and is commemorated on a cross at Clonmacnoise known as The Cross of Flann, it is also known as the Cross of the Scriptures.A female flann, daughter of Donnchad died in 939. Flannacán was also in use. (There is no real English version although Florence is often used). |
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| Giolla Chríost | Servant of Christ. (English version is Gilchrist). |
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| Laighneach | A Leinsterman. (English version is Spears) |
| Liam | From the Germanic: meaning strong protector. (English version is William ). |
| Lorc | Fierce (English version is Laurence) |
| Lorcain | diminutive of Lorc, fierce (English version is Laurence) |
| Lorcán, | diminutive of Lorc, fierce (English version is Laurence) |
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| Maghnus | Great . (English version is Manus). |
| Micheál | (English version is Michael). |
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| Niall | Champion. (English version is Neil). |
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| Oisín | The little deer. (English version is Ossian). |
| Oscar | From the Norse meaning Spear of God .(English version is Oscar). |
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| Pádraig | From the Latin meaning Noble.(English version is Patrick). |
| Pauric | Northern version of Paudraig.From the Latin meaning Noble.(English version is Patrick). |
| Peadar | From the Greek meaning Rock. (English version is Peter). |
| Piaras | From the Norman for Peter. (English versions are Piers,Pierce and Pearse). |
| Pól | (english version is Paul). |
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| Ruaidhri | From the Norse for famous ruler. (English versions are Rory ,Rodger and Roderick). |
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| Séamus | From Hebrew meaning supplanter. (Spanish version isJaime. English version is James ). |
| Seosaimh | (English version is Joseph) . |
| Seoirse | (English version is George). |
| Seán | From the Norman French for John, which is of course the english version. |
| Shawn | From the Norman French for John which is of course the english version. |
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| Tadhg | Poet. (English versions are Teague, Timothy and Thady). |
| Traolach | Incarnation of the thunder.(English versions are Tarlach, Turlogh and Terence ). |
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| Uilliam | English version is William). |
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