Experts have revealed a number of uncommon Irish first names and surnames that have barely ranked in the top 1000 most popular names in the US over the past century, but parents could be missing out because they are beautiful options.
Irish names are extremely popular all over the world, some more than others. For example, the Irish name Liam has consistently ranked in the top ten most common names in the US and Canada for the past decade.
Experts over at Nameberry have recently pointed out five Irish names that are rare and uncommon but beautiful choices that parents could be missing out on!
We take a look at the five names the experts have revealed and the meanings behind these beautiful but rare Irish names in the US.
Bridie – once a very popular name in Ireland
Starting off with an oldie but a beautiful Irish name – Bridie. Bridie was once a very popular name in Ireland, but it never quite reached the heights of popularity in the US.
Bridie comes from the Irish name Brigid, meaning “exalted one, fire goddess, strength, power”. With the trend of vintage names making a comeback, why not consider the name Bridie for your little one?
While Bridie has never reached the top 1000 most popular names in the US since 1900, the name Bridget always does.
Bannon – an Irish surname
Bannon is an Irish surname that is the English version of the surname O Banain, meaning “son of the fair-haired one”.
This Irish surname has never ranked in the US Social Security’s top 1000 most popular names.
Ennis – more of a gender-neutral name
Typically an Irish boy’s name, Ennis is more commonly considered a gender-neutral Irish name today that has not ranked in the top 1000 most popular names in the US since 1943.
Ennis is the name of the biggest town in County Clare in southwest Ireland, which makes it a unique choice.
Ennis reached peak popularity in the US in 1900 when it ranked in 588th place. Maybe it’s time for Ennis to make a comeback!
Fitzpatrick – “son of Patrick”
A surname meaning “son of Patrick”, Nameberry says, “This surname, meaning ‘son of Patrick,’ could be a good option as an honor name — and Fitz is a cool nickname too”.
This Irish surname has never reached the top 1000 most popular names in the US.
Sinead – a surprising entry
Our final entry might come as a surprise to many, as Sinead is definitely one of the most well-known Irish girls’ names.
However, while Sinead remains a popular name on the home soil in Ireland, it has not ranked in the top 1000 names for any year of birth in the US starting with the year 1900.
Sinead is a stunning Irish name, perhaps most notably the name of the late, great Sinead O’Connor, and means “God is gracious”.
