Celtic Baby Names with Meanings

Celtic Baby Girl Names

Lachlan

• Origin: Scottish name originally used to refer to someone from Norway.
• Meaning: “Land of the lochs.”
• Famous Namesakes: Lachlan Murdoch, an Australian-British-American businessman and mass media heir.
• Popularity: Popular in Australia and Scotland, it’s gaining traction in other English-speaking countries due to its strong, resonant sound.

Malcolm

• Origin: Scottish name derived from Gaelic Máel Coluim, meaning “disciple of Columba.”
• Meaning: “Servant or disciple of Saint Columba.”
• Famous Namesakes: Malcolm X, an American Muslim minister and human rights activist, is a notable namesake, though not Celtic.
• Popularity: Historically popular in Scotland, it maintains steady usage in English-speaking countries.

Nolan

• Origin: Anglicized form of the Irish surname Ó Nualláin.
• Meaning: “Descendant of the famous one.”
• Famous Namesakes: Nolan Ryan, an American former Major League Baseball pitcher.
• Popularity: Has been rising steadily in popularity in the United States and Canada.

Owen

• Origin: Welsh origin, possibly derived from the name Owain.
• Meaning: “Young warrior” or “well-born.”
• Famous Namesakes: Owen Wilson, an American actor and screenwriter known for his roles in comedies and dramatic films.
• Popularity: Consistently popular in the United States, ranking among the top 100 names for boys.

Pádraig

• Origin: Irish form of Patrick.
• Meaning: “Nobleman.”
• Famous Namesakes: Pádraig Harrington, an Irish professional golfer.
• Popularity: Common in Ireland and among Irish communities abroad, often anglicized as Patrick.

Quinn

• Origin: Derived from the Irish surname Ó Cuinn, meaning “descendant of Conn.”
• Meaning: “Wise” or “counsel.”
• Famous Namesakes: Quinn Buckner, a former American basketball player and coach.
• Popularity: Increasingly used for both genders, particularly in the United States, where it’s appreciated for its brevity and uniqueness.

Ronan

• Origin: Irish name derived from the word “rón” meaning “seal.”
• Meaning: “Little seal.”
• Famous Namesakes: Ronan Keating, an Irish singer-songwriter, famous for his work with Boyzone and as a solo artist.
• Popularity: Well-loved in Ireland and gaining recognition elsewhere, especially in the UK and Australia.

Sawyer

• Origin: Transferred use of the English surname meaning “woodcutter.”
• Meaning: “Woodcutter.”
• Famous Namesakes: Not directly linked to Celtic origins but popularized by Mark Twain’s character Tom Sawyer.
• Popularity: Gaining popularity in North America as a first name for its rugged, adventurous image.

Teague

• Origin: Derived from the Irish name Tadhg, meaning “poet” or “philosopher.”
• Meaning: “Poet” or “philosopher.”
• Famous Namesakes: Largely historical figures and not widely associated with modern celebrities.
• Popularity: A unique choice in English-speaking countries, appealing for its deep Celtic roots and intellectual resonance.

Torin

• Origin: Derived from the Gaelic word “torr,” meaning “chief” or “leader.”
• Meaning: “Chief” or “leader.”
• Famous Namesakes: Not widely known in popular culture, which adds to its uniqueness.
• Popularity: Rare and distinctive, it’s chosen by parents seeking a name with strength and originality.

Aisling

• Origin: Irish.
• Meaning: “Dream” or “vision.”
• Famous Namesakes: Aisling Bea, an Irish comedian, actress, and writer known for her comedic talent and roles in various television series.
• Popularity: Popular in Ireland and gaining familiarity elsewhere due to the rising profile of Aisling Bea.

Bronwen

• Origin: Welsh.
• Meaning: “White breast” or “blessed raven.”
• Famous Namesakes: Bronwen Hughes, a Canadian film director and producer.
• Popularity: Appreciated in Wales and among those seeking traditional Welsh names with lyrical sounds.

Caoimhe

• Origin: Irish.
• Meaning: “Gentle, beautiful, precious.”
• Famous Namesakes: Caoimhe Guilfoyle, an Irish reality television star.
• Popularity: Well-loved in Ireland, its unique spelling and pronunciation pose challenges and charm abroad.

Darcy

• Origin: Irish surname derived from O’Dorchaidhe.
• Meaning: “Dark one.”
• Famous Namesakes: Darcy Bussell, a retired English ballerina known for her work as a judge on “Strictly Come Dancing.”
• Popularity: Gaining popularity globally, especially in English-speaking countries for its elegance and simplicity.

Enya

• Origin: Anglicized form of the Irish name Eithne.
• Meaning: “Kernel” or “grain,” symbolically referring to a seed of life.
• Famous Namesakes: Enya, an Irish singer, songwriter, and musician, internationally renowned for her ethereal music style.
• Popularity: Known worldwide largely due to the singer, Enya is a popular choice for parents who are fans of her music.

Gwendolyn

• Origin: Welsh.
• Meaning: “White ring” or “blessed ring.”
• Famous Namesakes: Gwendolyn Brooks, an American poet and writer, though not Celtic, is a notable namesake.
• Popularity: Well-regarded in English-speaking countries for its elegance and strong literary association.

Imogen

• Origin: Possibly derived from the Celtic name Innogen, meaning “maiden” or “innocent.”
• Meaning: “Maiden” or “innocent.”
• Famous Namesakes: Imogen Poots, a British actress known for her diverse roles in both independent films and blockbusters.
• Popularity: Gaining popularity in the UK and the US, admired for its literary roots and unique sound.

Keira

• Origin: Anglicized form of the Irish name Ciara, meaning “dark-haired.”
• Meaning: “Dark-haired.”
• Famous Namesakes: Keira Knightley, an English actress famous for her roles in period dramas and blockbuster films.
• Popularity: Popular in many English-speaking countries, particularly since the rise of actress Keira Knightley.

Lilith

• Origin: Although not traditionally Celtic, Lilith has been adopted into modern Celtic naming due to its strong mythical connections.
• Meaning: “Night monster” or “ghost” in ancient mythologies, but often reinterpreted in modern times as a symbol of strength.
• Famous Namesakes: Lilith Fair, a music festival founded by singer Sarah McLachlan featuring female artists, is a notable cultural reference.
• Popularity: Growing in popularity, especially among those drawn to unique, mythologically rich names.

Morna

• Origin: Gaelic.
• Meaning: “Affection” or “beloved.”
• Famous Namesakes: Less commonly associated with contemporary famous figures.
• Popularity: Rare and distinctive, chosen for its lyrical sound and deep Gaelic roots.

Nessa

• Origin: Diminutive of the Irish name Agnes.
• Meaning: “Gentle” or “pure.”
• Famous Namesakes: Nessa Barrett, a young American social media personality and singer.
• Popularity: Gaining traction especially in digital culture circles due to modern celebrities.

Oonagh

• Origin: Anglicized form of the Irish name Úna.
• Meaning: “Lamb” or “one.”
• Famous Namesakes: Oonagh MacDonald, former Labour Party politician in the UK.
• Popularity: Maintains a niche appeal, cherished for its unusual spelling and melodious sound.

Piper

• Origin: While not originally Celtic, Piper is often included in modern Celtic lists due to its popularity in English-speaking countries.
• Meaning: “Pipe player.”
• Famous Namesakes: Piper Perabo, an American actress known for her role in the movie “Coyote Ugly” and the TV series “Covert Affairs.”
• Popularity: Widely used in the United States, favored for its cheerful sound and association with the arts.

Rowena

• Origin: Possibly derived from Welsh elements meaning “slender” and “fair.”
• Meaning: “Famous friend” or “white spear.”
• Famous Namesakes: Rowena Ravenclaw, from the Harry Potter series, although fictional, greatly popularized the name.
• Popularity: Known in English-speaking countries, especially among fans of the Harry Potter series.

Siobhan

• Origin: Irish version of the name Joan.
• Meaning: “God is gracious.”
• Famous Namesakes: Siobhan Fahey, an Irish singer-songwriter best known as a founding member of the pop group Bananarama and later Shakespears Sister.
• Popularity: Well-used in Ireland and the UK, and known in the US among those with Irish heritage.

Celtic Baby Boy Names

Alastar

• Origin: Gaelic form of Alexander.
• Meaning: “Defender of mankind.”
• Famous Namesakes: Not widely associated with specific famous individuals, Alastar is valued for its unique variant of a traditional name.
• Popularity: Less common than its English counterpart, Alexander, Alastar offers a distinctive choice for those seeking a Gaelic name.

Brogan

• Origin: Derived from the Irish surname Ó Brógáin.
• Meaning: “Sturdy shoe” or metaphorically “strong, reliable.”
• Famous Namesakes: Not particularly associated with celebrities, it’s often chosen for its robust and distinctive sound.
• Popularity: Brogan remains a rare choice, appealing to parents looking for a unique name with Celtic roots.

Callum

• Origin: Scottish Gaelic form of Columba.
• Meaning: “Dove,” symbolizing peace.
• Famous Namesakes: Callum Blue, an English actor known for his roles in TV series like “Dead Like Me” and “Smallville.”
• Popularity: Widely used in Scotland and gaining popularity in other English-speaking countries.

Dermot

• Origin: Irish form of Diarmaid, possibly meaning “free from envy.”
• Meaning: “Free from envy” or “without enemies.”
• Famous Namesakes: Dermot Mulroney, an American actor known for his roles in romantic comedies and drama films.
• Popularity: Has a traditional usage in Ireland and is known in other areas due to Irish diaspora.

Eoghan

• Origin: Old Irish origin, related to the name Owen.
• Meaning: “Born of the yew tree” or “youth.”
• Famous Namesakes: Eoghan Quigg, a Northern Irish singer who rose to fame on the UK show “The X Factor.”
• Popularity: Particularly popular in Ireland and among Irish communities.

Finley

• Origin: Anglicized form of the Scottish Gaelic name Fionnlagh.
• Meaning: “White warrior” or “fair-haired hero.”
• Famous Namesakes: Finley Quaye, a British musician known for his distinctive fusion of jazz, reggae, and pop.
• Popularity: Has seen a significant rise in popularity across the UK and USA, favored for its gentle yet strong connotation.

Griffin

• Origin: Derived from the Welsh name Gruffudd.
• Meaning: “Strong in faith” or “prince.”
• Famous Namesakes: Griffin Dunne, an American actor and film producer.
• Popularity: Known more in the US than in Celtic regions, often chosen for its mythological associations.

Hamish

• Origin: Scottish version of James.
• Meaning: “Supplanter.”
• Famous Namesakes: Hamish Blake, an Australian comedian and television presenter.
• Popularity: Popular in Scotland and considered charming and traditional outside the UK.

Ian

• Origin: Scottish form of John.
• Meaning: “God is gracious.”
• Famous Namesakes: Ian McKellen, a British actor renowned for his roles in “The Lord of the Rings” and “X-Men” films.
• Popularity: Widely used in English-speaking countries, especially in the UK.

Keegan

• Origin: Anglicized form of the Irish surname Mac Aodhagáin.
• Meaning: “Descendant of the fiery one.”
• Famous Namesakes: Keegan-Michael Key, an American actor, comedian, writer, and producer.
• Popularity: Has gained popularity in the United States as a first name, known for its energetic and strong sound.

Lachlan

• Origin: Scottish name originally used to refer to someone from Norway.
• Meaning: “Land of the lochs.”
• Famous Namesakes: Lachlan Murdoch, an Australian-British-American businessman and mass media heir.
• Popularity: Popular in Australia and Scotland, it’s gaining traction in other English-speaking countries due to its strong, resonant sound.

Malcolm

• Origin: Scottish name derived from Gaelic Máel Coluim, meaning “disciple of Columba.”
• Meaning: “Servant or disciple of Saint Columba.”
• Famous Namesakes: Malcolm X, an American Muslim minister and human rights activist, is a notable namesake, though not Celtic.
• Popularity: Historically popular in Scotland, it maintains steady usage in English-speaking countries.

Nolan

• Origin: Anglicized form of the Irish surname Ó Nualláin.
• Meaning: “Descendant of the famous one.”
• Famous Namesakes: Nolan Ryan, an American former Major League Baseball pitcher.
• Popularity: Has been rising steadily in popularity in the United States and Canada.

Owen

• Origin: Welsh origin, possibly derived from the name Owain.
• Meaning: “Young warrior” or “well-born.”
• Famous Namesakes: Owen Wilson, an American actor and screenwriter known for his roles in comedies and dramatic films.
• Popularity: Consistently popular in the United States, ranking among the top 100 names for boys.

Pádraig

• Origin: Irish form of Patrick.
• Meaning: “Nobleman.”
• Famous Namesakes: Pádraig Harrington, an Irish professional golfer.
• Popularity: Common in Ireland and among Irish communities abroad, often anglicized as Patrick.

Quinn

• Origin: Derived from the Irish surname Ó Cuinn, meaning “descendant of Conn.”
• Meaning: “Wise” or “counsel.”
• Famous Namesakes: Quinn Buckner, a former American basketball player and coach.
• Popularity: Increasingly used for both genders, particularly in the United States, where it’s appreciated for its brevity and uniqueness.

Ronan

• Origin: Irish name derived from the word “rón” meaning “seal.”
• Meaning: “Little seal.”
• Famous Namesakes: Ronan Keating, an Irish singer-songwriter, famous for his work with Boyzone and as a solo artist.
• Popularity: Well-loved in Ireland and gaining recognition elsewhere, especially in the UK and Australia.

Sawyer

• Origin: Transferred use of the English surname meaning “woodcutter.”
• Meaning: “Woodcutter.”
• Famous Namesakes: Not directly linked to Celtic origins but popularized by Mark Twain’s character Tom Sawyer.
• Popularity: Gaining popularity in North America as a first name for its rugged, adventurous image.

Teague

• Origin: Derived from the Irish name Tadhg, meaning “poet” or “philosopher.”
• Meaning: “Poet” or “philosopher.”
• Famous Namesakes: Largely historical figures and not widely associated with modern celebrities.
• Popularity: A unique choice in English-speaking countries, appealing for its deep Celtic roots and intellectual resonance.

Torin

• Origin: Derived from the Gaelic word “torr,” meaning “chief” or “leader.”
• Meaning: “Chief” or “leader.”
• Famous Namesakes: Not widely known in popular culture, which adds to its uniqueness.
• Popularity: Rare and distinctive, it’s chosen by parents seeking a name with strength and originality.

Brendan

• Origin: Derived from the Irish name Bréanainn, which is believed to have Breton roots.
• Meaning: “Prince” or possibly “stinking hair.”
• Famous Namesakes: Brendan Fraser, a Canadian-American actor known for his leading roles in major films such as “The Mummy” series. Brendan Behan, an Irish poet and playwright, is also a notable namesake.
• Popularity: Popular in Ireland and among Irish-American communities, the name has seen widespread use internationally, partly due to the fame of Brendan Fraser.

Cedric

• Origin: Invented by Sir Walter Scott for a character in his novel “Ivanhoe.” The name was possibly based on Cerdic, the name of a legendary Saxon king.
• Meaning: The meaning is not historically established, but it is often associated with “bounty” due to its literary origin.
• Famous Namesakes: Cedric the Entertainer, an American actor and comedian known for his work in various sitcoms and movies.
• Popularity: The name has enjoyed moderate popularity, particularly in English-speaking countries, influenced by its noble sound and literary origin.

Declan

• Origin: Irish, from the name Deaglán.
• Meaning: Possibly “man of prayer” or “full of goodness.”
• Famous Namesakes: Declan Donnelly, one half of the British TV presenting duo Ant & Dec. Declan McKenna, a British singer-songwriter known for his politically charged music.
• Popularity: Particularly popular in Ireland and has gained significant traction in the UK and the US, appealing to parents seeking a strong yet approachable Celtic name.

Evan

• Origin: Welsh version of John, derived from Iefan, a form of Iohannes.
• Meaning: “God is gracious.”
• Famous Namesakes: Evan Peters, an American actor known for his roles in the “American Horror Story” series and various superhero films.
• Popularity: Widely used in the United States and the UK, Evan is favored for its simple pronunciation and classic appeal.