Looking for something a little bit different? Check out our list of the most unusual Irish girl names around!
Thanks to the ancient Gaelic language, traditional Irish names are among some of the most beautiful in the world. It seems like even those outside of the Emerald Isle have fallen in love with them, with first names like Kerry and Shannon proving increasingly popular all over the globe.
If you’re searching for something a bit different for a baby name, look no further. There are still plenty of Irish girl names that have yet to reach the masses. Check out our list of the top 10 unusual Irish girl names below.
10. Sadb/Sadhbh
In late medieval Ireland, this unusual girls name once held the title of the second-most-popular in the land. Although it has long since fallen out of fashion, you could choose to revive it.
The name is said to mean ‘sweet’ and is pronounced ‘sive’.
9. LĂadan
Meaning ‘grey lady’, this name is pronounced ‘Lee-uh-din’.
Another unusual Irish girl name steeped in Irish mythology, LĂadan was a poetess who chose to switch things up in her life and become a nun.
8. Caireann
This name, which has already begun to catch on in certain parts of the U.S. and Canada, is commonly pronounced ‘Kay-reen’, or ‘Kay-ren’.
Said to mean ‘little beloved’, it is an increasingly popular diminutive of ‘Cara’, the Irish word for friend.
7. Sheelin
Many Irish first names take inspiration from place-names. As Ireland has a long history of superstition, many places that have been associated with supernatural events or sightings have been named accordingly.
Lough Sheelin, meaning ‘lake of the fairies’, is no exception. Harness the power of the fae and choose this mysterious name for your baby girl.
6. Cliodhna
Although an increasingly popular name in Ireland, most people who live beyond the Emerald Isle will be new to this beautiful name.
Cliodhna is well remembered in ancient Irish mythology as one of the most important goddesses. The story goes that she made the courageous journey from Tir Tairngaire (The Land of Promise) to meet her mortal lover. The tale ends tragically, with a wave sweeping her away as soon as she lands.
5. Etain
This unusual Irish girl name is pronounced ‘E-tane’. Like many names, it is richly steeped in ancient Irish mythology. Legend has it, Etain was a beautiful fairy who reached the unfortunate fate of being turned into a butterfly.
That is, until she accidentally fell into a queen’s glass of wine and was reborn a beautiful young woman.
4. Ailbhe
Pronounced ‘Al-va’ or ‘Ale-va’, this name comes from the old Irish word meaning ‘bright’.
In Irish mythology, Ailbhe Gruadbrecc was a famed and powerful warrior-woman.
3. Doireann
If you’re a fan of an unusual name, then Doireann may be the one for you.
As opposed to more floral and meek name meanings, this one means ‘tempestuous’ or ‘stormy’.
This strong name is shared by the mythological daughter of Bodb Derg, who poisoned Fionn Mac Cumhaill. When it comes to pronunciation, the jury is pretty much out on this one, but it’s commonly pronounced ‘Dor-en’ or ‘Dear-en’.
2. Mealla
Another name with a strong meaning, Mealla is said to mean ‘lightning’.
Despite its beauty, it’s not often used in today’s world. It was once a common name in Ireland, with several holy women throughout Irish history sharing it.
1. Iseult
If you really want to get experimental with a name for your Irish girl, try this one out for size. According to legend, Iseult (pronounced ‘Ee-sult’), was a mythological Irish princess who fell victim to a love potion while on her way to marry King Mark of Cornwall.
This magical concoction sent her head over heels in love with the King’s nephew, Tristan.
Other variations of this name include Isolde and Yseult.
Whether you choose one of the more popular girl names for your baby, or go for something a bit different like those on this list, you can rest assured your child will carry her Irish heritage with her wherever she wanders. Just don’t expect everyone to be able to pronounce it!
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