79 Irish First Names that Start with B


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There are some famous names that start with B, both for boys and girls. We’ve curated this list because there aren’t any other good resources that focus solely on Ireland, so we hope you find it useful!
Perhaps you’d also like to check out some of our other lists of Irish names. We also have a list of Irish surnames that start with B which could be helpful if you’re making a character.
Irish Girls First Names that Start with B
There are some really cute girls’ names beginning with B in this list that are creative versions of traditional names, such as Beatrís and Báílé which are traditional names with a twist.
⭐ Our Favourite: Bríghid (Bríghid)
Pronunciation: BREE-jid
First Used: Ancient Ireland, over 1,500 years ago
Meaning: “Strength” or “Exalted One,” associated with both the Celtic goddess of poetry, healing, and fertility and St. Brigid, one of Ireland’s patron saints.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Bríghid embodies resilience, wisdom, and deep Irish heritage. It has a legendary status in mythology and history, making it a timeless and meaningful name.
🕊️ Beatrice (Beatrís)
Pronunciation: BAY-a-tris
Meaning: Of Latin origin, Beatrice means “bringer of joy” or “blessed.” The name became popular in Ireland through Catholic influences and literary works like Dante’s Divine Comedy. St. Beatrice of Silva was a revered figure in the 15th century.
🔥 Bridget (Bríd)
Pronunciation: BREED
Meaning: Rooted in Irish mythology, Bríd is linked to Brigid, the goddess of fertility, wisdom, and poetry. It became widespread due to St. Brigid of Kildare, one of Ireland’s patron saints, celebrated for her miracles and kindness.
🦌 Bernadette (Bearnadette)
Pronunciation: BER-na-det
Meaning: A French name meaning “brave as a bear,” Bernadette became well-known through St. Bernadette of Lourdes, who had visions of the Virgin Mary. In Ireland, it gained popularity due to strong Catholic influences.
⚓ Barbara (Bairbre)
Pronunciation: BAR-bra
Meaning: Originally Greek, meaning “foreign” or “stranger,” Barbara was widely used in medieval Europe. St. Barbara, an early Christian martyr, was revered in Ireland, especially among sailors who considered her their patron saint.
🌹 Bella (Beile)
Pronunciation: BEL-ah
Meaning: Meaning “beautiful” in Italian and Latin, Bella has been adopted into Irish usage as a charming, romantic name. It gained popularity in the 19th century and has remained timeless in literature and pop culture.
🌊 Bethany (Beathnach)
Pronunciation: BETH-a-nee
Meaning: A biblical name referring to a village near Jerusalem, Bethany means “house of affliction” or “house of figs.” It became popular in Ireland through Christian influence and remains a gentle, classic choice.
🏹 Brianna (Bríanna)
Pronunciation: BREE-ah-nah
Meaning: A feminine form of Brian, Brianna means “noble” or “high.” The name emerged in medieval Ireland and was later popularized by literature, particularly in tales of warriors and noble families.
🍃 Blair (Bláir)
Pronunciation: BLARE
Meaning: Of Scottish-Gaelic origin, Blair means “field” or “plain.” Though more common in Scotland, it has been embraced in Ireland for its strong yet poetic sound, often associated with nature.
🌞 Bonnie (Bánaí)
Pronunciation: BAW-nee
Meaning: Meaning “pretty” or “cheerful” in Scottish and Irish traditions, Bonnie gained popularity through folk songs like My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean. It remains a warm, endearing name.
🔥 Brenna (Breanná)
Pronunciation: BREN-ah
Meaning: Derived from the Irish Braon, meaning “descendant of Braon” or “little drop,” Brenna is a modern adaptation. It carries connotations of strength and resilience, linked to Irish warrior history.
🌧️ Bronagh (Brónach)
Pronunciation: BROH-nah
Meaning: Derived from the Irish brón, meaning “sorrow,” Bronagh was the name of a revered 6th-century saint from County Down. Despite its melancholic meaning, it symbolizes compassion and strength, reflecting the saint’s reputation for kindness and devotion.
🌿 Brinley (Brínlí)
Pronunciation: BRIN-lee
Meaning: Of Welsh and Irish origins, Brinley means “burnt meadow” or “noble.” Though more common in modern usage, its roots tie to nature and aristocracy, making it a stylish yet historic name choice.
😊 Blythe (Blí)
Pronunciation: BLITHE
Meaning: Meaning “joyful” or “carefree” in Old English and Irish adaptations, Blythe has an airy, optimistic feel. It was a rare but elegant name in Ireland, often associated with literature and the arts.
🌸 Bettina (Beatíná)
Pronunciation: bet-TEE-nah
Meaning: A diminutive of Elizabeth, meaning “God is my oath,” Bettina was introduced to Ireland through European influence. It carries an old-world charm and was once popular among aristocratic families.
🏡 Baile (Báílé)
Pronunciation: BAL-ya
Meaning: Meaning “home” or “town” in Irish, Baile is deeply connected to place names across Ireland. While rare as a first name, it symbolizes a deep sense of belonging and heritage.
🌺 Briar (Bríar)
Pronunciation: BRY-er
Meaning: Inspired by the wild rose plant, Briar signifies resilience and natural beauty. Though not traditionally Irish, it has been adopted in modern naming trends for its poetic and strong connotations.
🏰 Briana (Bríana)
Pronunciation: BREE-ah-nah
Meaning: A feminine form of Brian, meaning “noble” or “strong,” Briana gained popularity through medieval Irish legends and noble families. It remains a regal and enduring choice.
❄️ Blanche (Blánse)
Pronunciation: BLANSH
Meaning: Derived from the French blanc, meaning “white” or “pure,” Blanche was historically used in noble circles across Ireland and France. It evokes elegance and simplicity.
🌊 Beverly (Béibearlí)
Pronunciation: BEV-er-lee
Meaning: Meaning “beaver stream,” Beverly originated as a surname but became a given name through Anglo-Irish influence. It was once associated with aristocratic families and coastal towns.
🎀 Betsy (Beitsí)
Pronunciation: BET-see
Meaning: A charming diminutive of Elizabeth, meaning “God is my oath,” Betsy has a vintage appeal. It was popular in 19th-century Ireland and is often associated with strong, independent women in history and literature.
✝️ Benedicta (Beannéideta)
Pronunciation: ben-eh-DIK-tah
Meaning: A Latin-origin name meaning “blessed,” Benedicta became popular in Ireland through Saint Benedict’s influence. It carries a strong religious and scholarly connotation, often associated with nuns and educators in Irish history.
🌬️ Bree (Brí)
Pronunciation: BREE
Meaning: Derived from Brígh, meaning “strength” or “power” in Irish, Bree is a short, spirited name with ties to Irish mythology and legends. It embodies energy and determination.
🔹 Brin (Brín)
Pronunciation: BRIN
Meaning: Meaning “hill” or “high place,” Brin is a nature-inspired name with links to Gaelic words for elevation. It has a sleek, modern feel while retaining a deep Irish connection.
🌿 Briony (Bríonaí)
Pronunciation: BRY-oh-nee
Meaning: Inspired by the climbing vine, Briony symbolizes growth and resilience. While more common in England, it has gained favor in Ireland for its botanical charm and literary appeal.
🌊 Bay (Báí)
Pronunciation: BAY
Meaning: Meaning “sea inlet,” Bay reflects Ireland’s deep maritime roots. Though uncommon, it resonates with the island’s coastal culture, symbolizing exploration and freedom.
💃 Baila (Báila)
Pronunciation: BYE-lah
Meaning: A name with Hebrew and Irish influences, Baila means “dance” or “joy.” Though rare, it captures a lively and expressive spirit.
🔥 Bevin (Beibhín)
Pronunciation: BEV-een
Meaning: Meaning “melodious lady,” Bevin comes from the ancient Irish name Beibhinn, linked to legendary queens and poets. It carries elegance and musicality.
🏡 Bexley (Bexlaí)
Pronunciation: BEKS-lee
Meaning: Meaning “woodland clearing,” Bexley is a newer name with a fresh, modern sound. Though uncommon in Ireland, it reflects a love for nature and open spaces.
🌸 Bluebell (Blúibéal)
Pronunciation: BLOO-bel
Meaning: Inspired by the delicate blue wildflower, Bluebell symbolizes humility and gratitude. While rare as a name in Ireland, it has a whimsical, nature-inspired charm. Bluebells are deeply connected to Irish folklore, often seen as magical flowers in ancient tales.
🏹 Bryce (Brís)
Pronunciation: BRICE
Meaning: Meaning “swift” or “descendant of Brice,” this name has Gaelic and Scottish roots. It is associated with warriors and noble families in medieval Ireland and remains a strong, unisex name today.
🌹 Brigid-Rose (Bríghid-Rós)
Pronunciation: BREE-jid ROHS
Meaning: A combination of Bríghid, meaning “strength,” and Rós, meaning “rose,” this name blends Irish tradition with floral beauty. It honors St. Brigid, one of Ireland’s patron saints, known for her wisdom and kindness.
⛪ Bethel (Béiteal)
Pronunciation: BETH-el
Meaning: Meaning “house of God” in Hebrew, Bethel has been used in Irish religious contexts. It carries a peaceful, spiritual energy, often associated with places of worship and sacred lands.
🕊️ Blanid (Blánid)
Pronunciation: BLAH-nid
Meaning: A rare but ancient Irish name derived from Bláthnat, meaning “little flower.” In legend, Bláthnat was a princess in Irish mythology, symbolizing beauty and tragic love.
🔔 Bel (Beil)
Pronunciation: BELL
Meaning: A simple, elegant name meaning “bright” or “beautiful.” Bel was historically associated with Celtic sun gods and later adapted as a feminine given name.
🌿 Briar-Lynn (Bríar-Linn)
Pronunciation: BRY-er LIN
Meaning: A modern blend of Briar, meaning “thorny bush,” and Lynn, meaning “lake” or “waterfall.” This nature-inspired name reflects resilience and serenity, capturing both the strength of the land and the softness of flowing water.
🌑 Blakely (Bláiclí)
Pronunciation: BLAYK-lee
Meaning: Meaning “dark wood” or “pale meadow,” Blakely has Old English and Irish influences. Though primarily a surname, it has become a stylish first name, evoking a mix of mystery and nature.
🌟 Bristie (Brístí)
Pronunciation: BRIS-tee
Meaning: A rare and modern-sounding name, Bristie may be derived from Brigid or Bristol. It has a light, energetic feel and is often associated with creativity and uniqueness.
🌾 Brenley (Breanlaí)
Pronunciation: BREN-lee
Meaning: A combination of Brendan and Lee, Brenley means “descendant of Braon,” an ancient Irish name meaning “raindrop” or “chief.” It has a soft yet noble air.
🌹 Brenna-Rose (Breanná-Rós)
Pronunciation: BREN-ah ROHS
Meaning: A modern blend of Brenna, meaning “descendant of Braon” (raindrop), and Rós, meaning “rose.” This name captures both natural beauty and resilience, combining strength with delicate charm.
🌼 Bluma (Blúma)
Pronunciation: BLOO-mah
Meaning: A name of Yiddish and Irish influence, Bluma means “flower” or “blooming one.” It embodies vitality and new beginnings, making it a fresh, nature-inspired choice.
🍀 Blasia (Blásia)
Pronunciation: BLAH-sha
Meaning: Likely derived from Bláth, meaning “flower,” Blasia is an old, rare Irish name. It conveys a sense of elegance and natural beauty, making it a poetic choice.
🎶 Bina (Bína)
Pronunciation: BEE-nah
Meaning: A name of multiple origins, Bina in Irish derives from Beibhinn, meaning “melodious lady.” It has been used for centuries, often associated with music and poetry.
🐾 Brindle (Bríndil)
Pronunciation: BRIN-dil
Meaning: Derived from the Old Irish brindal, meaning “speckled” or “patterned,” Brindle is a rare name linked to nature and animals. It symbolizes uniqueness and individuality, often associated with the brindle coat pattern in animals.
💎 Brenessa (Brenéisa)
Pronunciation: breh-NESS-ah
Meaning: A modern blend of Brenna (descendant of Braon, meaning “raindrop”) and Vanessa. It has a regal, sophisticated sound, often linked to strength and beauty.
🌿 Brycenna (Brícéina)
Pronunciation: bry-SEN-ah
Meaning: A fusion of Bryce (meaning “swift”) and Senna (a medicinal plant), this name reflects nature, speed, and wisdom. While rare, it has an ethereal quality.
✨ Bexanna (Bexána)
Pronunciation: beks-AN-ah
Meaning: A creative blend of Bexley and Anna, Bexanna symbolizes a mix of modernity and tradition. It carries connotations of grace, independence, and a bright personality.
🍀 Breslina (Breslína)
Pronunciation: BRES-lee-nah
Meaning: Possibly derived from Bres, the Irish god of fertility, and Lína (meaning “flaxen” or “soft”), Breslina carries strength and delicacy. It evokes resilience and prosperity.
🔥 Baethea (Báithia)
Pronunciation: BAY-thee-ah
Meaning: Connected to Baeth, meaning “fiery” or “passionate” in old Irish, Baethea represents strength and energy. It has a mystical, ancient feel.
🌹 Breyara (Bréara)
Pronunciation: bray-AH-rah
Meaning: A unique blend of Bré (meaning “noble”) and Ara (meaning “altar”), Breyara symbolizes high status and spirituality. It has an elegant, lyrical sound.
🌸 Blythe-Rose (Blí-Rós)
Pronunciation: BLYTH-rohs
Meaning: A double-barrel name combining Blythe (meaning “joyful”) and Rós (meaning “rose”). It symbolizes happiness and delicate beauty, with a vintage, poetic feel.
🍇 Berrianne (Beiríann)
Pronunciation: BEHR-ee-ann
Meaning: A modern blend of Berry and Anne, this name evokes nature and grace. Beiríann could also be linked to the Irish beir, meaning “to bring” or “to carry,” symbolizing strength and abundance.
⚔️ Bresandra (Bresándra)
Pronunciation: breh-SAN-drah
Meaning: A fusion of Bres, the Irish mythological god of fertility and beauty, and Sandra (defender of men). Bresandra combines warrior-like strength with noble charm, making it a powerful and unique name.
Irish Boys First Names Beginning that Start with B
Similar to the list of girls’ names, there are also some great boys’ names to choose from. If you’re expecting a baby boy (congratulations!) then you could go for Bláic which is quite striking, or you could go for a more traditional name like Bróm.
⭐ Our Favourite: Brennan (Braonán)
Pronunciation: BREN-nan
First Used: Medieval Ireland
Meaning: Derived from Braonán, meaning “descendant of Braon,” with braon translating to “moisture”
Why It’s Our Favourite: Brennan has deep Irish roots, a strong yet lyrical sound, and a noble history. It embodies resilience and tradition while still feeling modern and approachable.
🌊 Brandon (Breandán)
Pronunciation: BRAN-dun
Meaning: Derived from Breandán, often linked to St. Brendan the Navigator, a legendary Irish monk who is said to have sailed to the Americas before Columbus. The name means “prince” or “descendant of Braon,” a Gaelic word for “drop of water.”
👑 Brian (Brian)
Pronunciation: BRY-an
Meaning: One of the most famous Irish names, Brian means “noble” or “high.” Brian Boru, the High King of Ireland, led the Irish to victory at the Battle of Clontarf in 1014. The name remains one of Ireland’s most enduring.
🎭 Blake (Bláic)
Pronunciation: BLAYK
Meaning: From the Old English blæc (black) or blāc (pale), leading to two contradictory meanings. The surname Blake has strong ties to Galway, where the Blakes were one of the “Tribes of Galway.” Poet William Blake is a notable namesake.
🦅 Bartholomew (Parthalán)
Pronunciation: bar-THAW-lo-mew
Meaning: Derived from Aramaic, meaning “son of Talmai.” In Ireland, Parthalán is linked to mythology, as Partholón was said to be one of the first settlers of Ireland. St. Bartholomew was one of Christ’s apostles.
🌿 Barry (Bearach)
Pronunciation: BAR-ee
Meaning: Derived from the Old Irish bearach, meaning “spear” or “sharp.” It was the name of several early Irish saints. Barry has been popular in Ireland for centuries, with Barry’s Tea being a famous modern cultural reference.
🌊 Blaine (Bláinne)
Pronunciation: BLAYN
Meaning: Of Gaelic origin, meaning “thin” or “slender.” It is linked to St. Bláán, a 7th-century Scottish-Irish bishop. The name is more common in Scotland but has Irish roots as well.
🦅 Boyd (Boid)
Pronunciation: BOYD
Meaning: Likely from the Gaelic buidhe, meaning “yellow” or “fair-haired.” Boyd was used as a surname in Ulster, where Scottish settlers brought it over. Famous Boyds include actors and authors of Scottish-Irish descent.
🎸 Bobby (Bobaí)
Pronunciation: BAH-bee
Meaning: A diminutive of Robert, meaning “bright fame.” In Ireland, Bobaí is a rare but affectionate form. Famous Bobbys include Bobby Sands, the Irish republican hunger striker, and Bobby Charlton, the legendary footballer.
🍀 Bohan (Bóchán)
Pronunciation: BO-han
Meaning: An Irish surname turned first name, derived from Ó Buadhacháin, meaning “descendant of Buadhach” (victorious). The name has strong Irish roots and is still found in counties Clare and Tipperary.
🚢 Brendan (Breandán)
Pronunciation: BREN-dan
Meaning: From Breandán, meaning “prince” or “descendant of Braon.” Most famously borne by St. Brendan the Navigator, an Irish monk believed to have voyaged across the Atlantic centuries before Columbus. A name rich in seafaring legend.
⛰️ Breck (Bric)
Pronunciation: BREK
Meaning: Of Irish and Scottish origin, from breac, meaning “speckled” or “freckled.” Bric appears in early Irish annals and is associated with nature and rugged landscapes.
🌿 Breckin (Bricín)
Pronunciation: BREK-in
Meaning: Likely derived from the Gaelic breac, meaning “speckled” or “freckled.” Bricín is a diminutive form often used in Irish surnames. The name has a rugged, nature-inspired feel, fitting for those with Celtic heritage.
🏰 Barnett (Barnait)
Pronunciation: BAR-net
Meaning: Of Old English origin, meaning “clearing by the barn.” Barnait is a rare Irish variant. While more common as a surname, Barnett has an old-world charm and historical depth.
🔥 Baelfire (Báilfaire)
Pronunciation: BAYL-fire
Meaning: Derived from Celtic festivals, a baelfire was a sacred bonfire lit during Beltane to ward off evil. Báilfaire is an Irish-inspired version, connecting the name to ancient fire traditions.
🔥 Burns (Buirns)
Pronunciation: BURNZ
Meaning: A surname-turned-first-name, derived from “stream” or “burn” in Scottish and Irish Gaelic. Buirns is a phonetic Irish version. Poet Robert Burns’ legacy gives this name literary significance.
🏋️ Brawner (Bránair)
Pronunciation: BRAW-ner
Meaning: Likely derived from brawn, meaning “muscular” or “strong.” Bránair is a Gaelicized form. The name carries a sense of physical power, making it popular for athletes and warriors.
🏰 Balfour (Bálfúr)
Pronunciation: BAL-for
Meaning: Of Scottish-Gaelic origin, meaning “pasture village.” Bálfúr follows Irish phonetics. The name is associated with Arthur Balfour, former British Prime Minister, who played a key role in Irish history.
🌿 Brom (Bróm)
Pronunciation: BROM
Meaning: A shortened form of Bromley, meaning “broom-covered meadow.” Bróm is a naturalistic Gaelic adaptation. It evokes images of Celtic landscapes and open fields.
📜 Brinsley (Brínslaí)
Pronunciation: BRINZ-lee
Meaning: Of Old English origin, meaning “burnt meadow.” Brínslaí is a Gaelicized adaptation. The name was once common among Anglo-Irish families, adding a literary, aristocratic touch.
🏰 Blaxton (Blacstún)
Pronunciation: BLACKS-tun
Meaning: Meaning “black stone town,” it has English roots. Blacstún is an Irish phonetic form. The name carries a sense of strength and permanence, suitable for someone with a commanding presence.
🍺 Bailey (Báílé)
Pronunciation: BAY-lee
Meaning: Originally an occupational surname meaning “bailiff” or “steward.” Báílé is an Irish phonetic adaptation. The name is linked to Baileys Irish Cream, making it culturally significant in Ireland.
🌊 Bevin (Béibhín)
Pronunciation: BEV-in
Meaning: Of Irish origin, meaning “fair lady” or “melodious woman.” Béibhín is a traditional Irish name, historically used for both men and women, though more common for females.
🎵 Ben (Binn)
Pronunciation: BEN
Meaning: A short form of Benjamin, meaning “son of the right hand,” but in Irish, Binn means “melodious” or “sweet-sounding.” It appears in Irish place names like Ceann Binn (Binn Head), reinforcing its poetic and musical connection.
📜 Beale (Béil)
Pronunciation: BEEL
Meaning: Likely from Old French, meaning “handsome” or “fair.” Béil is an Irish adaptation. The Beale family has historical significance in Ireland, and the name is also tied to the mysterious Beale Ciphers, linked to hidden treasure legends.
Thank you for taking a look at our list of names beginning with B – we hope you found it useful! If you’re looking for inspiration then perhaps you’d be interested in some of the other lists of names.