Celtic names carry a rich history and cultural significance, making them a popular choice for parents seeking meaningful names for their sons. Celtic names for boys are rooted in the languages and traditions of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and other regions with Celtic heritage. These names often connect deeply to nature, mythology, and historical figures, offering a unique blend of strength, beauty, and timeless appeal.
Embracing a Celtic name for your boy can honour your family’s heritage or simply reflect an appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry of the Celtic people. Whether you are drawn to traditional names steeped in history or unique modern variations, our extensive lists provide a wealth of options to inspire you.
The Appeal of Celtic Names for Boys
Celtic names are known for their lyrical sounds and profound meanings. They often embody qualities such as bravery, wisdom, and honour, reflecting the values held by ancient Celtic societies. These names can also evoke the beauty of the natural world, with many names inspired by landscapes, animals, and celestial phenomena.
Choosing a Celtic name for your son can give him a strong and distinctive identity. The following categories offer a diverse selection of names from Irish, Scottish, and Gaelic origins and unique and traditional options to suit every preference.
Traditional Irish Boy Names with Meanings
Irish names have a longstanding tradition and are known for their poetic sound and meaningful origins. Below is a list of traditional Irish boy names along with their meanings:
Aidan – Means “little fire”
Brendan – Means “prince” or “king”
Cormac – Means “charioteer” or “son of defilement.”
Declan – Means “full of goodness”
Eamon – Irish form of Edmund, meaning “wealthy protector”
Fergus – Means “man of strength” or “strong man.”
Finn – Means “fair” or “white”
Liam – Short form of William, meaning “strong-willed warrior.”
Niall – Means “champion” or “cloud”
Patrick – Means “nobleman” or “patrician”
Ronan – Means “little seal”
Seamus – Irish form of James, meaning “supplanter.”
Sean – Irish form of John, meaning “God is gracious.”
Tiernan – Means “little lord”
Tadhg – Means “poet” or “philosopher”
Cillian – Means “little church”
Conor – Means “lover of hounds” or “wolf lover.”
Dara – Means “oak tree”
Donal – Means “ruler of the world”
Eoin – Irish form of John, meaning “God is gracious”
Fionn – Variant of Finn, meaning “fair” or “white”
Kieran – Means “little dark one”
Malachy – Means “my messenger” or “my angel”
Padraig – Irish form of Patrick, meaning “nobleman”
Quinn – Means “chief” or “intelligent”
Rory – Means “red king”
Shane – Variant of Sean, meaning “God is gracious”
Eoghan – Means “born of the yew tree”
Cathal – Means “battle ruler”
Brian – Means “strong” or “virtuous”
Diarmuid – Means “without envy”
Fiachra – Means “raven” or “hunter”
Gavin – Means “white hawk”
Lorcan – Means “little fierce one”
Oisin – Means “little deer”
Phelan – Means “wolf”
Rian – Variant of Ryan, meaning “little king”
Ruairi – Means “red king”
Setanta – Childhood name of the hero Cú Chulainn
Turlough – Means “dry lake”
Ultan – Means “man from Ulster”
Aengus – Means “one strength” or “unique choice”
Brennan – Means “descendant of the sad one” or “little raven”
Ciaran – Means “little dark one”
Colm – Means “dove”
Donnacha – Means “brown-haired warrior”
Fintan – Means “white fire” or “fair-haired”
Gearoid – Irish form of Gerard, meaning “spear strength”
Iarla – Means “nobleman” or “earl”
Keenan – Means “ancient” or “descendant of the fair one”
Manus – Means “great” or “greatness”
Nolan – Means “champion” or “famous”
Odhran – Means “little pale green one”
Peadar – Irish form of Peter, meaning “rock”
Quigley – Means “untidy hair”
Redmond – Means “wise protector”
Sullivan – Means “dark-eyed one”
Torin – Means “chief” or “lord”
Uilliam – Irish form of William, meaning “strong-willed warrior”
Cathair – Means “battle man” or “warrior”
Daire – Means “fruitful” or “fertile”
Eanna – Means “bird-like”
Fearghal – Means “man of valor” or “brave man”
Garrett – Variant of Gerard, meaning “spear strength”
Hugh – Means “mind” or “intellect”
Ivor – Means “archer” or “yew tree”
Keane – Means “fighter” or “sharp”
Murtagh – Means “mariner” or “sea warrior”
Nestor – Means “wise counselor”
Oran – Means “light” or “pale little green one”
Pearse – Variant of Piers, meaning “rock”
Quinlan – Means “strong” or “well-made”
Riordan – Means “royal poet” or “bard”
Sloan – Means “warrior” or “raider”
Tynan – Means “dark” or “dusty”
Uaithne – Means “unity” or “green”
Bran – Means “raven”
Cahir – Means “battle man”
Cian – Means “ancient” or “enduring”
Colin – Variant of Colm, meaning “dove”
Donnelly – Means “dark, brave one”
Finbar – Means “fair-haired” or “blond”
Grady – Means “noble” or “illustrious”
Lachlan – Means “from the land of lakes”
Macsen – Welsh form of Maximus, meaning “greatest”
Neal – Means “champion” or “cloud”
Oscar – Means “friend of deer” or “deer lover”
Piran – Cornish saint’s name, associated with “prayer”
Quaid – Means “son of Uaid,” possibly “fire”
Shea – Means “hawk” or “admirable”
Teague – Means “poet” or “philosopher”
Ulick – Variant of Uilliam, meaning “will” or “desire”
Art – Means “bear” or “noble one”
Bailey – Means “bailiff” or “law enforcer”
Donovan – Means “dark warrior”
Eamon – Already listed; means “wealthy protector”
Gareth – Welsh origin, meaning “gentle”
Iarlaith – Means “lord” or “ruler”
Keir – Means “dark-haired”
Mannix – Means “monk”
Orin – Variant of Odhran, meaning “pale green”
Rafferty – Means “prosperity wielder” or “abundance”
Tierney – Means “lord” or “master”
Ulton – Means “from Ulster”
These traditional Irish names carry historical significance and cultural depth, making them timeless choices for your son. Each name sounds lyrical and carries a meaning that can inspire and define your child’s identity.
Traditional Scottish Boy Names with Meanings
Scottish names are rich in history and culture, often reflecting the country’s rugged landscapes and storied past. Below is a list of traditional Scottish boy names along with their meanings:
Alastair – Scottish form of Alexander, meaning “defender of mankind”
Ewan – Means “born of the yew tree”
Fergus – Means “man of strength”
Gordon – Means “great hill” or “spacious fort”
Hamish – Scottish form of James, meaning “supplanter”
Ian – Scottish form of John, meaning “God is gracious”
Keith – Means “wood” or “forest”
Lachlan – Means “from the land of lakes”
Malcolm – Means “devotee of Saint Columba”
Murray – Means “from the sea settlement”
Ross – Means “headland” or “promontory”
Scott – Means “from Scotland”
Struan – Means “stream” or “flow”
Archibald – Means “genuine” and “bold”
Brodie – Means “little ridge”
Callum – Means “dove”
Cameron – Means “crooked nose”
Douglas – Means “dark river” or “black stream”
Duncan – Means “dark warrior”
Fraser – Means “strawberry”
Gregor – Means “vigilant” or “watchful”
Innes – Means “from the island”
Jock – Scottish diminutive of John
Keir – Means “dark-haired”
Lennox – Means “with many elm trees”
Logan – Means “little hollow”
Magnus – Means “great”
Muir – Means “moor” or “sea”
Ramsay – Means “low-lying land”
Stewart – Means “steward” or “keeper of the estate”
Blair – Means “plain” or “field”
Boyd – Means “yellow” or “blond”
Bruce – From a Scottish surname, associated with Robert the Bruce
Colin – Means “dove”
Crawford – Means “ford of the crows”
Finlay – Means “fair hero” or “white warrior”
Graham – Means “gravelly homestead”
Harvey – Means “battle worthy”
Irving – Means “green river” or “sea friend”
Kerr – Means “from the marshland”
Laird – Means “lord” or “landowner”
Macbeth – Means “son of life”
Mackenzie – Means “son of the fair one”
Murdo – Means “sea warrior”
Roderick – Means “famous ruler”
Seumas – Scottish form of James, meaning “supplanter”
Tavish – Scottish form of Thomas, meaning “twin”
Wallace – Means “foreigner” or “Welshman”
Angus – Means “one strength” or “unique choice”
Baird – Means “bard” or “poet”
Clyde – Name of a Scottish river
Euan – Variant of Ewan, meaning “born of the yew tree”
Ferguson – Means “son of Fergus”
Gawain – Legendary knight, meaning “white hawk”
Hector – Means “holding fast”
Ingram – Means “raven of peace”
Lyle – Means “island”
Maddox – Means “son of Madoc”
Nairn – From a place name meaning “river with alder trees”
Quinn – Means “wise” or “counsel”
Rennie – Diminutive of Reynold, meaning “counselor”
Sheridan – Means “searcher”
Taran – Means “thunder”
Uilleam – Scottish form of William, meaning “strong-willed warrior”
Aidan – Means “little fire”
Brice – Means “speckled” or “freckled”
Conall – Means “strong wolf”
Earl – Noble title
Finlay – Means “fair hero”
Galen – Means “calm” or “healer”
Hugh – Means “mind” or “intellect”
Iver – Variant of Ivor, meaning “archer”
Keith – Means “wood” or “forest”
Lorne – From the region of Lorne in Scotland
Macrae – Means “son of grace”
Ness – From the Loch Ness
Quade – Means “son of Uaid,” possibly “fire”
Tamhas – Scottish form of Thomas
Uisdean – Means “intelligent”
These traditional Scottish names carry the heritage and strength of Scotland’s history and landscapes, providing meaningful choices for your son.
Unique Celtic Boy Names with Meanings
For parents seeking names that are less common but still rooted in Celtic tradition, unique Celtic boy names offer distinctive sounds and rich meanings. Below is a list of unique Celtic boy names along with their meanings:
Aeron – Welsh name meaning “battle” or “berry”
Bevan – Welsh name meaning “son of Evan”
Cadoc – Welsh name meaning “battle” or “war”
Daire – Irish name meaning “fruitful” or “fertile”
Eirian – Welsh name meaning “silver” or “bright”
Fionnlagh – Scottish Gaelic form of Finlay, meaning “white warrior”
Gwilym – Welsh form of William, meaning “resolute protector”
Idris – Welsh name meaning “ardent lord”
Jevon – Variant of Evan, meaning “God is gracious”
Kelan – Irish name meaning “slender”
Lleu – Welsh mythological name meaning “bright” or “shining one”
Mael – Breton name meaning “chief” or “prince”
Nevan – Irish name meaning “little saint”
Osian – Welsh form of Oisin, meaning “little deer”
Pryce – Welsh name meaning “son of Rhys”
Quillan – Irish name meaning “cub” or “small one”
Rhys – Welsh name meaning “enthusiasm” or “ardor”
Sion – Welsh form of John, meaning “God is gracious”
Tadhg – Irish name meaning “poet” or “philosopher”
Urien – Welsh mythological name meaning “privileged birth”
Vaughn – Welsh name meaning “small” or “little”
Wyn – Welsh name meaning “blessed” or “fair”
Xander – Short form of Alexander, meaning “defender of mankind”
Yestin – Welsh form of Justin, meaning “just” or “righteous”
Aodhan – Irish name meaning “little fire”
Blathmac – Irish name meaning “flower”
Cianan – Irish name meaning “little ancient one”
Eamon – Irish form of Edmund, meaning “wealthy protector”
Faolan – Irish name meaning “little wolf”
Giolla – Irish name meaning “servant”
Harvey – Breton name meaning “battle worthy”
Iarlaith – Irish name meaning “lord” or “ruler”
Kean – Irish name meaning “ancient” or “enduring”
Lochlainn – Irish name meaning “from the land of lakes”
Mannix – Irish name meaning “monk”
Odhran – Irish name meaning “little pale green one”
Piran – Cornish saint’s name
Quill – Irish name meaning “writer” or “scribbler”
Roarke – Irish name meaning “champion”
Sorley – Scottish name meaning “summer traveler”
Turlough – Irish name meaning “dry lake”
Wynne – Welsh name meaning “fair” or “blessed”
Yoseff – Welsh form of Joseph, meaning “God will add”
Ailin – Irish name meaning “little rock”
Branigan – Irish name meaning “little raven”
Dermot – Irish name meaning “free from envy”
Eochaid – Irish name meaning “horse rider”
Finian – Irish name meaning “white” or “fair”
Gael – Means “stranger” or refers to Gaelic people
Huw – Welsh form of Hugh, meaning “mind” or “intellect”
Kester – Scottish diminutive of Christopher
Lorcán – Irish name meaning “little fierce one”
Murtagh – Irish name meaning “mariner” or “sea warrior”
Nolwenn – Breton name meaning “shining”
Odran – Variant of Odhran, meaning “pale green”
Quinlan – Irish name meaning “strong” or “well-made”
Rafferty – Irish name meaning “prosperity wielder”
Senan – Irish name meaning “little wise person”
Tiernan – Irish name meaning “little lord”
Ultan – Irish name meaning “man from Ulster”
These unique Celtic boy names offer distinctive choices that are both meaningful and deeply rooted in Celtic heritage.
Traditional Gaelic Boy Names with Meanings
Gaelic names originate from the Gaelic languages spoken in Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man. These names are rich in history and carry profound meanings. Below is a list of traditional Gaelic boy names along with their meanings:
Aodh – Means “fire”
Bran – Means “raven”
Ciaran – Means “little dark one”
Donn – Means “brown” or “chief”
Eoghan – Means “born of the yew tree”
Fearghas – Means “man of vigor”
Iain – Gaelic form of John, meaning “God is gracious”
Lachlan – Means “from the land of lakes”
Maolíosa – Means “servant of Jesus”
Niall – Means “champion” or “cloud”
Oisín – Means “little deer”
Pádraig – Gaelic form of Patrick, meaning “nobleman”
Ruairí – Means “red king”
Seamus – Gaelic form of James, meaning “supplanter”
Tadhg – Means “poet” or “philosopher”
Uilleam – Gaelic form of William, meaning “strong-willed warrior”
Artair – Gaelic form of Arthur, meaning “bear”
Cathal – Means “battle ruler”
Domhnall – Means “world ruler”
Fionn – Means “fair” or “white”
Gilleasbuig – Means “servant of the bishop”
Iarlaith – Means “lord” or “ruler”
Mac Aoidh – Means “son of Hugh”
Naoise – Mythological name
Óengus – Means “one strength”
Pilib – Gaelic form of Philip, meaning “lover of horses”
Raghnall – Gaelic form of Reginald, meaning “powerful advice”
Seoras – Gaelic form of George, meaning “farmer”
Tormod – Means “Thor’s mind”
Ùisdean – Means “intelligent”
Beathan – Means “life”
Caelan – Means “slender”
Daibhidh – Gaelic form of David, meaning “beloved”
Eachann – Means “brown horse”
Fearchar – Means “dear man”
Griogair – Gaelic form of Gregory, meaning “vigilant”
Iomhar – Gaelic form of Ivor, meaning “archer”
Labhraidh – Means “speaker”
Murchadh – Means “sea warrior”
Neacal – Gaelic form of Nicholas, meaning “victory of the people”
Oisean – Variant of Oisín, meaning “little deer”
Peadar – Gaelic form of Peter, meaning “rock”
Ruaridh – Variant of Ruairí, meaning “red king”
Tòmas – Gaelic form of Thomas, meaning “twin”
These Gaelic names carry the depth and history of the Gaelic-speaking peoples, providing meaningful and culturally rich options for your son.
Popular Celtic Boy Names with Meanings
Popular Celtic boy names have gained widespread acceptance due to their strong sounds and appealing meanings. Below is a list of popular Celtic boy names along with their meanings:
Aidan – Means “little fire”
Brendan – Means “prince” or “king”
Callum – Means “dove”
Connor – Means “lover of hounds” or “wolf lover”
Declan – Means “full of goodness”
Dylan – Welsh name meaning “son of the sea”
Finn – Means “fair” or “white”
Gavin – Means “white hawk”
Ian – Scottish form of John, meaning “God is gracious”
Liam – Short form of William, meaning “strong-willed warrior”
Logan – Means “little hollow”
Owen – Welsh form of Eugene, meaning “well-born” or “noble”
Ryan – Means “little king”
Sean – Irish form of John, meaning “God is gracious”
Brady – Means “spirited” or “broad”
Evan – Welsh form of John, meaning “God is gracious”
Kieran – Means “little dark one”
Patrick – Means “nobleman” or “patrician”
Rory – Means “red king”
Angus – Means “one strength” or “unique choice”
Cameron – Means “crooked nose”
Colin – Means “dove”
Donovan – Means “dark warrior”
Finley – Means “fair hero” or “white warrior”
Griffin – Welsh name meaning “strong lord”
Kenneth – Means “handsome” or “born of fire”
Malcolm – Means “devotee of Saint Columba”
Neil – Means “champion” or “cloud”
Quinn – Means “chief” or “intelligent”
Reese – Variant of Rhys, meaning “enthusiasm”
Shane – Variant of Sean, meaning “God is gracious”
Trevor – Means “large settlement”
Bryce – Means “speckled” or “freckled”
Cian – Means “ancient” or “enduring”
Desmond – Means “from South Munster”
Ewan – Means “born of the yew tree”
Fergus – Means “man of strength”
Garrett – Variant of Gerard, meaning “spear strength”
Hayden – Means “fire” or “heathen”
Keegan – Means “descendant of Aodhagán” (little fire)
Lachlan – Means “from the land of lakes”
Nolan – Means “champion” or “famous”
Pierce – Variant of Piers, meaning “rock”
Reagan – Means “little king”
Sullivan – Means “dark-eyed one”
Tristan – Means “noise” or “tumult”
These popular Celtic names have found favor not only in Celtic countries but around the world, making them familiar yet meaningful choices for your son.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some traditional Celtic names for boys?
Traditional Celtic names for boys include Aidan, Brendan, Cormac, Declan, Eamon, Fergus, Finn, Liam, Niall, and Patrick. These names have deep roots in Celtic history and carry significant cultural meanings.
Can you suggest unique Celtic boy names?
Unique Celtic boy names include Aeron, Bevan, Cadoc, Eirian, Gwilym, Idris, Lleu, Mael, Osian, Pryce, and Urien. These names are less common but offer distinctive sounds and rich meanings.
What is the meaning of the name “Lachlan”?
The name Lachlan means “from the land of lakes” and has Scottish origins. It reflects the rugged landscapes of Scotland and is a popular choice for boys.
Are there Gaelic names for boys that mean “warrior”?
Yes, Gaelic names meaning “warrior” include Duncan (means “dark warrior”), Murdo (means “sea warrior”), Conall (means “strong wolf”), and Fearghas (means “man of vigor”).
What are some popular Celtic boy names with strong meanings?
Popular Celtic boy names with strong meanings include Liam (means “strong-willed warrior”), Declan (means “full of goodness”), Gavin (means “white hawk”), Connor (means “lover of hounds”), and Ronan (means “little seal”).
Conclusion
Choosing a Celtic name for your boy offers a meaningful way to connect him to a rich cultural heritage filled with history, mythology, and profound symbolism. Whether you prefer traditional Irish, Scottish, Gaelic, or unique Celtic names, a wealth of options carry strong meanings and lyrical sounds.
These names not only honour the past but also provide your son with a distinctive identity that can inspire pride and a sense of connection to the timeless traditions of the Celtic people. As you consider these names, reflect on the qualities and meanings that resonate with your family’s values and the hopes you have for your child’s future.