🍀 60+ Irish Baby Girl Names (From Gorgeous Classics to Rare Hidden Gems)

Thinking about giving your daughter an Irish name is exciting… right up until you’re staring at Aoife, Saoirse, Caoimhe and Niamh and wondering what her teacher will do with that roll call.

Maybe you:

• Want to honour Irish roots (or just love the sound of Irish names)
• Are trying to find something unique but not weird
• Worry about pronunciation outside Ireland
• Want to know how popular a name really is before you commit

This guide is for you. We’ll look at real worries parents have (especially in Reddit threads), walk through a simple decision framework, and share 60+ Irish baby girl names with:

• Meanings
• Easy pronunciation hints
• A quick “vibe” check: popular, classic, or hidden gem

Along the way, you’ll see ideas for using tools like the Next 9 Months Baby Names Hub to check popularity data and test names with your family.

Picking a baby name is a big decision. The good news: Irish girl names give you a gorgeous mix of strong, lyrical, traditional and modern. The hard part is choosing just one.

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What parents on the internet actually worry about with Irish girl names

When you read through baby name and Irish name threads online, the same worries come up again and again:

1. “Unique but not weird”

Parents often say things like:

• “We want something Irish but not overused.”
• “Not Emma-level popular, but not so strange she has to explain it forever.”

They like the idea of rare, but not alienating.

2. Pronunciation and spelling

Gorgeous names like Saoirse, Caoimhe, Niamh, Aoibheann can be intimidating outside Ireland.

Parents ask:

• “Will people ever learn to say this?”
• “Is it cruel to give a non-Irish kid a name no one can spell?”

Some love the full Gaelic spelling. Others lean toward anglicised versions like Keira (Ciara) or Neve (Niamh).

3. Names that “travel”

Many families are spread across countries. They want Irish girl names that still:

• Work in English-speaking countries
• Don’t sound totally unfamiliar if you say them in another language
• Are easy enough on grandparents’ tongues

4. Heritage vs. ease of use

There’s tension between honouring Irish heritage and making life simple.

Some parents:

• Use the traditional Irish spelling as a middle name
• Choose a simpler or more international first name
• Or accept that a bit of explaining is worth it for a name they love

5. Popularity creep

Names like Maeve and Riley have moved from niche to very popular in recent years.

Parents who crave something special worry:

• “Is this about to be in every classroom?”
• “Will she be Maeve S. for her whole life?”

That’s where having real data on popularity and rarity becomes incredibly helpful.

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How to choose an Irish baby girl name you’ll still love in 10 years

Image: Simple four-step diagram showing how to choose an Irish baby girl name from heritage to pronunciation to popularity to family vote.

Here’s a simple way to use this article without getting overwhelmed.

Step 1: Decide your “heritage intensity”

Ask yourselves:

• Do we want the full Gaelic spelling? (Caoimhe, Aoibheann, Siobhán)
• Are we happier with an anglicised form? (Keeva, Neve, Shevaun)
• Or do we want something Irish‑ or Gaelic‑adjacent that feels familiar worldwide? (Maeve, Orla, Fiona, Erin)

There is no wrong answer here. It’s about what fits your family, your location, and your own patience for correcting people.

Step 2: Choose your popularity lane

Roughly:

• Very popular / trending – names lots of people are using right now
• Known but not everywhere – familiar, but not top of every chart
• Hidden gems – uncommon, sometimes rare even in Ireland

Inside the Next 9 Months Baby Names Hub, you’ll be able to:

• Search a name
• See its US popularity trend over time
• Decide if it’s a classic, a rising star, or a true unicorn

That’s gold if you’re trying to avoid the next ultra‑popular Olivia.

Step 3: Do the “Starbucks & CV” test

Imagine:

• A barista calling the name out loud
• A teacher reading it during attendance
• A future hiring manager seeing it on a CV

If you feel exhausted just thinking about constant corrections, lean toward:

• Easier spellings and pronunciations
• Or putting the more complex Irish form in the middle name slot

If you love the story and don’t mind explaining, go full Gaelic and own it.

Step 4: Test names with your partner and family (without drama)

This is where a tool like Next 9 Months shines:

1. You and your partner each shortlist your favourite Irish girl names.
2. Add them to a shared list in the Baby Names Hub.
3. Turn that list into a baby name poll so family and friends can vote.
4. Use the results as input, not a rule. You still get final say.

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Top & trending Irish baby girl names

These names are riding the current wave of popularity either in Ireland, the US, or across English‑speaking countries. They’re a good fit if you want an Irish name that doesn’t feel out of left field.

Pronunciations are approximations for English speakers; local accents may vary.

Maeve (MAYV) – From legendary queen Medb; often linked to meanings like “she who intoxicates” or “she who rules”. Strong, stylish, and very on‑trend.

Fiadh (FEE‑a) – From a word for “wild” or “deer”. Short, nature‑y and extremely popular in Ireland while still unusual elsewhere.

Aoife (EE‑fa) – Means “radiant” or “beautiful”. A warrior name from Irish legend that feels bright and bold.

Niamh (NEEV) – “Brightness, radiance”. A mythic princess who sailed to the land of youth; feels romantic and fairy‑tale.

Éabha (AY‑va) – Irish form of Eve, “life”. Looks distinctively Irish but sounds like Ava, giving you a best‑of‑both‑worlds option.

Orla / Orlaith / Orlagh (OR‑la) – “Golden princess” or “golden ruler”. Familiar in Ireland, charming and simple to say everywhere.

Aisling (ASH‑ling) – Means “dream” or “vision”, and also refers to a poetic genre. Literary, dreamy, but still grounded.

Saoirse (SEER‑sha or SIR‑sha) – From the word for “freedom”. Politically and culturally meaningful; a lot more familiar abroad now thanks to Saoirse Ronan.

Ciara / Keira (KEER‑a) – From a word for “dark‑haired”. Ciara is the traditional spelling; Keira is the global‑friendly twist.

Erin (AIR‑in) – Poetic name for Ireland itself. A gentle Irish nod that doesn’t confuse anyone.

Nora (NOR‑a) – Used in several languages, but has Irish roots too. Classic, cosy, and very wearable.

Fiona (fee‑OH‑na) – Modern Gaelic name (originally used in Scotland) from fionn, “fair, white”. Well‑known thanks to pop culture; feels strong but friendly.

Quinn (KWIN) – From an Irish surname. Sharp, modern, and unisex; fits the “short, punchy” trend.

Riley (RYE‑lee) – Another Irish‑rooted surname turned first name. Responsive to the “fun, sporty” vibe many parents like.

Kennedy (KEN‑uh‑dee) – A surname strongly associated with the famous US family. Feels bold and slightly presidential.

Sloane (SLOHN) – Chic surname‑style name with Irish roots. Reads sophisticated and modern.

Rowan (ROH‑an) – Meaning “little red one” or from the rowan tree. Nature‑leaning, gentle and unisex.

Tara (TAR‑uh) – From the Hill of Tara, ancient seat of Irish high kings. Simple, classic, and quietly regal.

Clodagh (CLO‑da) – Named after the River Clodiagh. Very common in Ireland, rare elsewhere; familiar once you learn it.

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Traditional & myth-inspired Irish girl names

These names lean into Irish mythology, saints, and folklore. Perfect if you want something deeply rooted in Irish culture and story.

Brigid / Brighid (BRID‑jid) – Associated with an ancient goddess and a beloved saint. Linked to fire, poetry, healing and wisdom.

Deirdre (DEER‑dra) – From the tragic heroine Deirdre of the Sorrows. Dramatic and literary; great if you like a bit of melancholy romance.

Áine (AWN‑ya) – Connected with brightness and splendour, sometimes a sun or land goddess. Warm, sunny and magical.

Gráinne (GRAWN‑ya) – Worn by legendary princesses and a famous pirate queen. Strong, adventurous, and very Irish.

Ailbhe (AL‑va) – Means “white, bright” or “noble”. A compact, glowing name that feels unusual outside Ireland.

Sorcha (SOR‑ka) – Often glossed as “bright” or “radiant”. Clean and sharp, but still soft on the ear.

Bronagh (BRO‑na) – Sometimes linked to “sorrow”, and associated with a saint. Has a serious, soulful quality.

Róisín (ROH‑sheen) – “Little rose”. Very romantic; also the name of a famous Irish song.

Fionnuala (fin‑OO‑la) – “Fair-shouldered”; heroine of the Children of Lir legend. Rich in story; nickname Nuala feels approachable.

Muireann (MWIR‑en, like “mir‑in”) – Associated with the sea. A lovely pick if you love ocean imagery.

Ríona (REE‑na / REE‑uh‑na) – Related to names linked with “queen”. Regal but still soft.

Máiréad (maw‑RAYD) – Irish form of Margaret, often interpreted as “pearl”. Feels classic and grounded.

Nuala (NOO‑la) – Short form of Fionnuala. Friendly, sweet, and very underused outside Ireland.

Caitlín (KAT‑leen) – Irish cousin of Catherine. Vintage and very Irish; source of spellings like Kathleen and Caitlin.

Sadhbh (SYVE) – Means “goodness” or “sweetness”. Looks intimidating on paper, gorgeous out loud.

Eimear / Éimear (EE‑mer) – A legendary wife of the hero Cú Chulainn. Strong, steady and rarely heard outside Ireland.

Siobhán (shi‑VAWN) – Irish form of Joan, “God is gracious”. Classic Irish girl name; familiar but not oversaturated.

Coleen / Colleen (ko‑LEEN) – From a word meaning “girl”. Feels retro Irish‑American and could be ready for a soft comeback.

Éadaoin / Éadaoine (AY‑deen) – Linked to a heroine of an old love story. Soft, lyrical and very distinctive.

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Rare & underused Irish girl names (for maximum “nobody else has this” points)

These are the names that make name‑nerd hearts light up. You won’t meet many of them in the wild, especially outside Ireland.

Cadhla (commonly KAY‑la / KY‑la) – Usually interpreted as “beautiful, graceful”. Soft, elegant sound with a lovely meaning.

Cliodhna (KLEE‑uh‑na) – Tied to a goddess of love and beauty. Rich, flowing and very mythy.

Bláthnaid / Blánaid (BLAW‑nid) – From bláth, “flower”. Floral but less expected than Rose or Lily.

Seoidín (SHOW‑deen) – Literally “little jewel” or “tiny treasure”. Sparkly, affectionate and very rare.

Bébhinn / Béibhinn / Bebhinn (BAY‑veen) – Often glossed as “pleasant” or “melodious woman”. Musical sound, strong meaning.

Gobnait (GUB‑nit) – Name of a beloved saint strongly associated with bees, probably related to a word for “smith”. Quirky, old‑school Irish with lots of personality.

Neasa (NESS‑a) – Possibly linked to a queen in legend. Short, sharp and powerful.

Líobhan (LEE‑van / LEE‑vawn) – Usually interpreted along the lines of “beauty of women”. Lush sound, extremely uncommon.

Aifric (AFF‑rick) – Medieval Irish name historically linked to the Latin Affraic/Africa; many modern sources interpret it as “pleasant” or “agreeable”. Edgy and cool, with medieval roots.

Nollaig (NUL‑ig) – Literally “Christmas”. A sweet option for a winter baby.

Alannah / Alanna (a‑LAN‑na) – Often linked to a phrase meaning “dear child” or “little one”. Gentle, affectionate, and easy internationally.

Cara (CAR‑a) – Means “friend” in Irish, and also appears in other languages. Simple word name with a warm vibe.

Aoibhe (EE‑va / EE‑vuh) – From a word for “beauty” or “radiance”. Short, pretty, and very Irish on the page.

Éibhlín / Eibhlin (EV‑leen / AYV‑leen) – Irish cousin of Evelyn / Aveline. Elegantly vintage.

Treasa (TRAH‑sa / TRACE‑a) – Related to Theresa, often linked with “strength”. Underused, sturdy and sweet.

Siún (SHOON) – Irish form of Joan or Susan. Tiny, punchy and distinctive.

Eadan / Éadan (AY‑dun / EE‑din) – From an Irish word meaning “face” or “forehead”, sometimes used as a modern variant of Aidan. Short and distinctive without being loud.

Dearbhla / Dervla (DERV‑la) – Often glossed as “daughter of the poet” or “true desire”. Strong, poetic, and very Irish.

Caoimhe (KEE‑va / KWEE‑va) – From a word meaning “gentle, precious, kind”. A name people on name forums adore; looks complex, sounds soft.

Aoibheann (AY‑veen / EE‑van) – Contains that “aoibh” root for beauty. Very pretty and very Irish; lovely as a first or middle.

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How to use this list with your partner (and with Next 9 Months)

Turning this article into an actual decision is where most couples get stuck. Here’s a workflow you can actually follow.

1. Each partner builds a mini short list

• One list of 5–10 favourites from this article
• At least a couple of “bold” Gaelic spellings if you’re open to them
• A few safer, easier‑to‑say choices

No judging, just collecting.

2. Add them into the Baby Names Hub

Inside the Next 9 Months Baby Names Hub, you can:

• Look up each name’s meaning, origin and pronunciation
• See how its popularity has changed over time
• Preview how it looks next to your family surname
• Save mutual favourites to one shared list

Now you’re not just guessing — you’re seeing real data.

3. Turn your list into a baby name poll

Still stuck?

• Turn your shortlist into a baby name poll
• Share one link with family and friends
• Watch votes roll in without endless group chat debates

You can even test:

• Traditional vs anglicised spellings
  • e.g. Caoimhe vs Keeva, Niamh vs Neve
• Which names your wider circle finds easiest to say

Use the results as a conversation starter, not a binding contract.

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Quick FAQ about Irish baby girl names

Are Irish baby girl names too hard to use outside Ireland?

Some traditional spellings (Saoirse, Caoimhe, Niamh, Siobhán) will be mispronounced at first in English‑speaking countries. Many parents think the story and heritage are worth it; others prefer an easier spelling.

A good compromise is:

• Irish spelling as a middle name, or
• An Irish‑inspired first name that’s easy to say everywhere (Maeve, Orla, Cara, Fiona).

Which Irish baby girl names “travel” best internationally?

If you want Irish roots with low confusion, try:

• Maeve, Orla, Tara, Fiona, Erin, Cara, Nuala, Alannah, Rowan, Quinn

They’re recognisably Irish‑flavoured but intuitive for most English speakers.

How can I see whether an Irish name is too popular?

Instead of guessing:

1. Add the name into the Next 9 Months Baby Names Hub.
2. Check its popularity trend (climbing fast, stable, or rare).
3. Decide if you’re okay with your daughter sharing her name with classmates.

Should I always pick the easier spelling?

Not necessarily. Ask:

• How important is it to you to preserve the original spelling?
• How do you feel about correcting people often?
• Are you happy if your child grows up saying, “Actually, it’s pronounced…”?

There’s no one right answer — only the answer that fits your family.

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If you’re feeling stuck, start by starring 10–15 names from this list in your baby names app, then run a fun little poll. You might be surprised which Irish girl name climbs to the top once you see it with your surname and a few hearts from the people who love you.