Irish Names - Traditional and modern names and meanings
Typical Irish names consists of a given name a middle name and a family name. The given name is a name that is assumed by a baby after birth. This is also known as their first name. The middle name in the English speaking world is the secondary name. The family name also known as the surname is a name that is passed from one generation to the other. It is used to distinguish people from one another. In Ireland people can have an English name and Irish names.
Here is a list of modern Irish names I found and the meanings including pronunciation:
Aislinn: it is pronounced “ASH-leeng” it means dream vision. It is also a type of poem where Ireland is portrayed as a beautiful girl in Peril. It is a very popular name in Ireland.
Alannah: pronounced a “LON-a” is taken form the term of affection. It is the feminine form of Alan.
A popular name in the USA was taken form the Irish names Caitlin or Catherine. It is Katelyn which happens to be what I named my daughter. There are over 155 ways to spell Katelyn so you can be creative.
Erin, meaning “poetic” name for Ireland. This name is more popular in the USA then in Ireland.
Fiona pronounced fee “OH-na” many consider this the most quintessential of all Irish names.
The name Kerry which is my name comes from Ciarrai the name of a county in Ireland. The original name comes from “ciar” which in Ireland means black.
Saoirse: pronounced “SEE-sha” this is one of the most popular Irish names in Ireland now.
Those are just a few Irish names I came across, and then I came across something interesting. Naming your Irish Pet. Whether you’re pets are dark colored black or brown, white light colored or yellow/ blonde red or blue or even gray, there are Irish names for your pet too. Although you don’t have to pick Irish names by color you can use your pet’s personality traits or physical characteristics. Here you can find a page that lists Irish names for your pets.
For instance if you have a dark colored pet you may choose the name Cronan meaning dark or swarthy, or Donavan which means dark brown or swarthy.
Whatever you decide there are a number of websites and books that you can find that will help you find the perfect Irish names for your child or you’re pet. You can also find the history behind the name you choose.