Irish Name

The Luck of an Irish Name

Conan O’Brien is about as Irish as a name can get, and he is indeed 100 percent Irish, according to his family history. If you’re looking for a real Irish name for child, you’ll need to decide if you want to use the authentic Irish version, which often sounds ancient, or the Anglicized version, which is much more Americanized for modern times. Conan is unique because the name is both authentically Irish yet Anglicized at the same time. In contrast, a name like Cowal is the Anglicized version of the Irish name Comhghall.

Some old-school Irish families like to have authentic Irish names, but go by the Anglicized version in everyday life. A traditional Irish name is one that is popular in Ireland and is deeply rooted in Irish history. Rós is a popular female Irish name, which can be Americanized to Rose. The name Conor comes from Conchobhar and literally means “hound lover.” Cara means “flaming red” and comes from the original Irish name of Ceara. Kaylin implies a willowy frame and comes from the name Caoilfhionn; the latter doesn’t roll off the tongue so nicely.

If you’re looking for a modern, less traditional Irish name, there are plenty. However, modern Irish names aren’t derived from Irish lore or history, so you’ll be forgoing any definite, deep historical context by choosing a modern name. Shannon, Megan, Kyle, Erin, and Caitlin have all been very popular in the U.S. Less trendy modern Irish names include Saoirse, Nelda, Firinne, and Aisling.

Conan means “little wolf,” and many Irish names are animal-based. Shea is a boy’s name that refers to the hawk, while Lonan is a boy’s name that refers to a blackbird. Geileis is a girl’s name that literally translates to “bright swan.” A less dainty but equally magical name for a girl is Feenat, which refers to a wild creature.

No matter if you’re looking for an ancient name or a more updated version, you have endless options that center on Ireland’s rich history.