Irish Girls First Names that Start with C

There is something very “Irish” about names that start with the letter C although I can’t quite place my finger on it! You might like a modern name like Clómhar or a more traditional option like Caitlín.

⭐ Our Favourite: Cecily (Síle)

Pronunciation: SES-il-ee
First Used: Medieval Europe, associated with Saint Cecilia
Meaning: A variant of Cecilia, meaning “blind” or “sixth.” Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of musicians, gave the name lasting religious and cultural significance.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Cecily carries both historical depth and musical connections, symbolizing beauty and devotion. It has an air of grace, linked to an iconic saint, making it timeless and meaningful.

👑 Catherine (Caitríona)

Pronunciation: kat-REE-na
Meaning: Caitríona is the Irish version of Catherine, meaning “pure.” Introduced by early Christians, it became widespread due to Saint Catherine of Alexandria. The name has been borne by Irish nobility and figures like Caitríona Balfe, the Irish actress known for Outlander.

❤️ Cara (Cara)

Pronunciation: KA-ra
Meaning: A simple yet beautiful name meaning “friend” or “beloved” in Irish and Italian. Common in both languages, it symbolizes warmth and affection. Cara has been a popular given name in Ireland since the 20th century, with enduring appeal.

🔥 Ciara

Pronunciation: KEE-ra
Meaning: Ciara, the feminine form of Ciarán, means “dark-haired” or “black” in Irish. It dates back to early Irish saints, such as Saint Ciara of Kilkeary. Modern popularity soared, partly thanks to the American singer Ciara.

📜 Claire (Clár)

Pronunciation: KLARE
Meaning: Clár is the Irish form of Claire, meaning “clear” or “bright.” Claire became fashionable in Ireland through French influence. Associated with clarity and intelligence, it’s a timeless name seen in figures like Claire Byrne, the Irish broadcaster.

🌿 Clara (Clára)

Pronunciation: KLAR-a
Meaning: From the Latin clarus, meaning “bright” or “famous,” Clára is a refined version used in Irish. The name was popularized by Saint Clare of Assisi and remains a sophisticated yet strong choice in Ireland today.

📖 Caitlin (Caitlín)

Pronunciation: KAT-leen or KOYT-leen (older Irish)
Meaning: The Irish equivalent of Catherine, meaning “pure.” Originally pronounced in an Irish way, it became Anglicized as “Kaitlyn.” The name remains widely loved, often linked to poet Caitlín Ní Uallacháin from Irish folklore.

🍀 Cassidy (Caiside)

Pronunciation: KAS-i-dee
Meaning: Originally a surname meaning “curly-haired,” Cassidy evolved into a given name. It traces back to the Caiside clan, renowned for their learning and poetry in medieval Ireland. It gained popularity as a first name due to its melodic sound.

👧 Colleen (Cailín)

Pronunciation: kah-LEEN
Meaning: Derived from the Irish cailín, meaning “girl” or “young woman.” Though historically a general term, it became a given name in the U.S., often evoking Irish-American heritage. Less commonly used in Ireland today but retains nostalgic charm.

🌊 Carmel (Cármel)

Pronunciation: KAR-mel
Meaning: Inspired by Mount Carmel in Israel, meaning “garden” or “vineyard” in Hebrew. The name has religious connotations, especially in Catholic Ireland due to devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel. It became popular among Irish girls in the 20th century.

🌿 Chloe (Clódaí)

Pronunciation: KLO-ee
Meaning: From the Greek Khloē, meaning “green shoot” or “blooming.” The Irish adaptation, Clódaí, retains the fresh, vibrant essence. Though rare in Ireland historically, Chloe became widely used in the late 20th century, ranking among the top names for Irish girls.

🌊 Callie (Cailí)

Pronunciation: KAL-ee
Meaning: Derived from the Greek kallos, meaning “beauty.” Cailí is an Irish rendering, though Callie has been used in Ireland as a standalone or nickname for Caoilfhionn. It evokes brightness and charm, gaining popularity in recent years.

👑 Caroline (Cairilín)

Pronunciation: KAR-o-line
Meaning: A feminine form of Charles, meaning “free woman.” The Irish variation, Cairilín, reflects its soft, melodic quality. Associated with historical figures like Caroline of Ansbach, queen consort of George II, and Caroline Wozniacki, the Danish tennis star with Irish ancestry.

✨ Celine (Saoilín)

Pronunciation: seh-LEEN
Meaning: From the Latin caelum, meaning “heavenly.” The Irish Saoilín is connected to saol (life). Made famous by Celine Dion, the name carries an elegant, timeless feel. In Ireland, it’s sometimes linked to Saint Céline, the mother of Saint Rémy.

📖 Coraline (Corailín)

Pronunciation: KOR-a-line
Meaning: Likely derived from Coral and Caroline, Coraline became famous through Neil Gaiman’s novel. Corailín is an Irish adaptation. Though rare in Ireland, its literary association and melodic sound have made it a growing favorite.

🍀 Clover (Clómhar)

Pronunciation: KLOH-ver
Meaning: Symbolizing luck and prosperity, Clover is linked to the Irish shamrock. The Irish Clómhar is inspired by cluimhre, meaning “abundance.” While traditionally a botanical name, it has been gaining use as a unique and charming first name.

🌊 Clodagh

Pronunciation: KLOH-da
Meaning: Named after the Clodagh River in Ireland, this name was popularized by aristocracy in the 19th century. Though not tied to a saint, it carries a deep connection to Irish landscapes and water, often symbolizing grace and movement.

📜 Clarissa (Cláirís)

Pronunciation: kla-RISS-a
Meaning: A variation of Clara, meaning “bright” or “famous.” Cláirís is the Irish equivalent. The name was immortalized in literature by Samuel Richardson’s novel Clarissa and retains an air of literary sophistication.

✝️ Christa (Críosta)

Pronunciation: KRIS-ta
Meaning: A diminutive of Christina, meaning “follower of Christ.” The Irish Críosta holds strong religious connotations. The name gained modern recognition through figures like Christa McAuliffe, the teacher-astronaut aboard the Challenger space shuttle.

🎭 Claribel (Cláribéal)

Pronunciation: KLAR-i-bel
Meaning: A combination of Clara (bright) and belle (beautiful), meaning “bright beauty.” The Irish Cláribéal enhances its musical quality. The name was famously used by Shakespeare in The Tempest, giving it a poetic and timeless elegance.

🌿 Cathleen (Caitlín)

Pronunciation: KATH-leen
Meaning: An older Irish form of Catherine, meaning “pure.” Caitlín was widely used in Ireland for centuries, later anglicized as Kathleen. It became popular through literature, such as Kathleen Ni Houlihan, symbolizing Ireland itself.

🎀 Cady (Caidí)

Pronunciation: KAY-dee
Meaning: Originally a diminutive of Cadence or a short form of Catherine, meaning “rhythm” or “pure.” The Irish Caidí keeps its playful yet strong essence. Popularized by Mean Girls character Cady Heron, the name has a fresh and modern feel.

🌸 Camellia (Camélia)

Pronunciation: ka-MEE-lee-a
Meaning: Named after the camellia flower, symbolizing admiration and perfection. The Irish Camélia mirrors its delicate beauty. Though rare as a given name, it gained literary fame through La Dame aux Camélias, inspiring La Traviata.

✝️ Carmelina (Cármelaí)

Pronunciation: kar-me-LEE-na
Meaning: A diminutive of Carmel, meaning “garden” or “vineyard.” The Irish Cármelaí retains its religious significance, associated with Mount Carmel and devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Common in Catholic traditions, it symbolizes faith and beauty.

🎀 Caraleigh (Cairilí)

Pronunciation: KAR-a-lee
Meaning: A modern combination of Cara (“friend”) and Leigh (“meadow”). The Irish Cairilí enhances its melodic quality. It’s a unique, affectionate name that blends Irish and English influences seamlessly.

📖 Clarinda (Clairínda)

Pronunciation: kla-RIN-da
Meaning: A literary name, first used in 17th-century poetry, meaning “bright” or “clear.” The Irish Clairínda keeps its refined quality. It was famously used by Robert Burns as a pseudonym for his friend Agnes McLehose.

🍃 Cinthia (Cíntia)

Pronunciation: SIN-thee-a
Meaning: Another variation of Kynthia, meaning “moon goddess.” The Irish Cíntia keeps its celestial beauty. Cynthia has been in use since ancient Greece and remains a timeless, luminous name.

🎠 Charlotta (Searlata)

Pronunciation: shar-LOT-a
Meaning: A variation of Charlotte, meaning “free woman.” The Irish Searlata maintains its regal feel. Though less common than Charlotte, it has a vintage elegance. Charlotta has been used in European royalty, adding to its timeless charm.

🌀 Cliona (Clíona)

Pronunciation: KLEE-na
Meaning: In Irish mythology, Clíona was a goddess of love and beauty, ruling over the Otherworld. She was said to lure men to their fate with her enchanting voice. Still popular in Ireland, Clíona carries both mystery and elegance.

🔥 Ciera (Cíara)

Pronunciation: SEE-ra
Meaning: A modern spelling of Ciara, meaning “dark-haired” in Irish. The name has been used since medieval times, linked to Saint Ciara. In recent years, it gained international recognition through singer Ciara, giving it a fresh and stylish appeal.

Irish Boys First Names that Start with C

There are some very cool names for boys that start with C. We especially like Caol and Cillian – in fact, one of my favourite actors is Cillian Murphy!

⭐ Our Favourite: Callistus (Callistús)

Pronunciation: KAL-is-toos
First Used: 3rd century
Meaning: Meaning “most beautiful” in Greek, Callistus was the name of a 3rd-century pope and saint.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Callistus stands out with its rare and elegant meaning, symbolizing beauty and grace. It holds a spiritual connection through its historical roots, adding a sense of nobility and reverence while remaining distinct and meaningful.

🏰 Charles (Cathal)

Pronunciation: KA-hal
Meaning: An ancient Irish name meaning “battle ruler,” Cathal was borne by medieval Irish kings and warriors. It has been in use since at least the 10th century. The Anglicized form, Charles, became popular due to Norman influence.

✝️ Christopher (Criostóir)

Pronunciation: KRIS-tohr
Meaning: Derived from the Greek name Christophoros, meaning “Christ-bearer.” The Irish form, Criostóir, retains the same religious significance. St. Christopher, the legendary saint, popularized the name. In Ireland, it became common through Christian influence in the Middle Ages.

🐺 Colin (Coileán)

Pronunciation: KUL-awn
Meaning: Meaning “young pup” or “whelp,” Coileán was originally used as a nickname for a spirited youth. Over time, it evolved into a given name. Colin, its English counterpart, gained popularity in Scotland and Ireland alike.

⚔️ Connor (Conchúr)

Pronunciation: KON-kur
Meaning: Meaning “lover of hounds,” Conchúr was famously borne by Conchobar mac Nessa, the legendary king of Ulster in Irish mythology. It has been a favored name in Ireland for centuries, later Anglicized as Connor.

⏳ Cian (Cian)

Pronunciation: KEE-an
Meaning: Meaning “ancient” or “enduring,” Cian was the name of a mythological Irish hero, father of Lugh, one of Ireland’s most important gods. It has remained a timeless and widely used name throughout Irish history.

📖 Caleb (Cáleb)

Pronunciation: KAH-leb
Meaning: A biblical name meaning “devotion to God,” Caleb has Hebrew origins but found its way into Irish naming traditions through religious influence. The Irish form, Cáleb, is less common but follows traditional phonetics.

🕊️ Callum (Colm)

Pronunciation: KOL-um
Meaning: Derived from the Latin “Columba,” meaning “dove,” Colm is associated with peace and spirituality. St. Colmcille, one of Ireland’s three patron saints, helped spread Christianity throughout Scotland. Callum is its Scottish counterpart.

🏇 Carl (Cairbre)

Pronunciation: KAR-breh
Meaning: Meaning “charioteer” or “warrior of the chariot,” Cairbre was the name of several legendary Irish kings and warriors. It remains a strong yet rare name in modern Ireland, while Carl became a more common variant internationally.

⛰️ Craig (Creag)

Pronunciation: KRAYG
Meaning: Meaning “rock” or “crag,” Creag reflects Ireland’s rugged landscapes. Though of Scottish origin, it became a surname and later a given name in Ireland, symbolizing strength and steadfastness.

🌳 Curtis (Cairthinn)

Pronunciation: KAR-hin
Meaning: An old Irish name meaning “rowan tree,” Cairthinn was associated with protection and wisdom in Celtic traditions. Though Curtis has Norman-French roots, its connection to nature makes it an interesting parallel in Irish naming history.

🏹 Cedric (Cedraic)

Pronunciation: KED-rik
Meaning: Thought to have Saxon origins, Cedric was popularized by Sir Walter Scott’s novel Ivanhoe (1819). The Irish form, Cedraic, follows Gaelic phonetics. Though rare in Ireland, the name evokes a noble, medieval feel.

🌊 Clive (Clíodhna)

Pronunciation: KLEE-uh-nuh
Meaning: In Irish mythology, Clíodhna was a powerful goddess of love and beauty, associated with the sea. The name Clive, meaning “cliff” or “slope,” has a similar natural connection, making this an interesting Irish adaptation.

🏔️ Cameron (Camran)

Pronunciation: KAM-ran
Meaning: Originally Scottish, Cameron means “crooked nose” in Gaelic, possibly referring to a battle-wounded warrior. The Irish form, Camran, preserves the rugged feel of the name, often associated with resilience and strength.

✝️ Christian (Críostán)

Pronunciation: KREE-uhs-tawn
Meaning: Meaning “follower of Christ,” Christian has deep religious roots. The Irish form, Críostán, was used in medieval Ireland, particularly among Norman settlers. It remains a classic and widely recognized name across Europe.

🎭 Casey (Cáise)

Pronunciation: KAW-sha
Meaning: Meaning “vigilant” or “watchful,” Casey comes from the Irish surname Ó Cathasaigh. Historically, it was a name for warriors or strategists. Cáise, a rarer form, adapts the name into Gaelic tradition.

🛡️ Carson (Carstún)

Pronunciation: KAR-stoon
Meaning: Originally a Scottish surname, Carson may derive from “son of Carr,” meaning “marsh dweller.” The Irish form, Carstún, sounds more native. It has a strong, surname-turned-first-name appeal.

🔥 Cole (Col)

Pronunciation: KOL
Meaning: Derived from the Old English “coal” (charcoal), Cole symbolizes resilience and fire. The Irish form, Col, is linked to Colm, meaning “dove,” giving it a more peaceful contrast. Colm Cille, an Irish saint, is a famous bearer.

🌿 Clayton (Cléitín)

Pronunciation: KLAY-teen
Meaning: Meaning “place with clay soil,” Clayton has Anglo-Saxon roots. The Irish equivalent, Cléitín, creatively adapts the name while maintaining its earthy, nature-based origins.

⚔️ Chad (Sead)

Pronunciation: SHAD
Meaning: Chad has Anglo-Saxon origins, meaning “warrior” or “battle.” The Irish Sead is rare but maintains the name’s brevity and strength. St. Chad, a 7th-century bishop, made the name notable.

🏇 Cody (Codaí)

Pronunciation: KO-dee
Meaning: Meaning “descendant of Ó Cuidighthigh” (meaning “helpful one”), Cody has deep Irish roots. The Irish form, Codaí, gives it a more traditional Gaelic sound. It has long been a popular first name in the U.S. and Ireland.

📜 Cormac (Cormac)

Pronunciation: KOR-mak
Meaning: Meaning “charioteer” or “son of the raven,” Cormac was borne by several Irish kings, including Cormac mac Airt, a legendary High King. The name is deeply rooted in Irish mythology and history.

🐺 Conan (Conán)

Pronunciation: KOH-nawn
Meaning: Meaning “little wolf,” Conán was a name used for warriors in ancient Ireland. In mythology, Conán Maol was a fierce member of the Fianna. The name retains a strong and fearless reputation.

🏛️ Clinton (Clíontán)

Pronunciation: KLEEN-tawn
Meaning: Derived from an English surname, Clinton means “settlement on a hill.” The Irish adaptation, Clíontán, gives it a native Gaelic feel. Famous bearers include U.S. President Bill Clinton, who has Irish ancestry.

✝️ Cyril (Coireall)

Pronunciation: KOR-ul
Meaning: Meaning “lordly” or “masterful,” Cyril comes from the Greek Kyrios (lord). The Irish form, Coireall, was once common among early Christian saints and monks in Ireland.

⚔️ Cassius (Cas)

Pronunciation: KAS
Meaning: Meaning “vain” or “empty” in Latin, Cassius was the name of a famous Roman senator. The Irish short form, Cas, was also a legendary warrior in Irish mythology, father of the Dal gCais clan.

🦅 Corbin (Coirbín)

Pronunciation: KOR-been
Meaning: Derived from the Latin corvus (raven), Corbin symbolizes intelligence and mysticism. The Irish form, Coirbín, follows Gaelic phonetics. Ravens were often associated with warriors and omens in Celtic mythology.

🎼 Cecil (Séisil)

Pronunciation: SHAY-sil
Meaning: Cecil means “blind” in Latin, but in Ireland, the Gaelic form Séisil is linked to the arts, as many musicians bore the name. It was popular among Anglo-Irish families.

🍀 Cillian (Cillian)

Pronunciation: KILL-ee-an
Meaning: Meaning “war strife” or “bright-headed,” Cillian was the name of St. Cillian, an Irish missionary who spread Christianity in Germany. It remains one of Ireland’s most beloved names.

🛡️ Cathal (Cathal)

Pronunciation: KA-hal
Meaning: Meaning “battle ruler,” Cathal was a name for Irish kings and warriors, symbolizing leadership and strength. It remains a popular name in Ireland, with historical figures such as Cathal Brugha, an Irish revolutionary.

🌊 Cael (Caol)

Pronunciation: KALE
Meaning: Meaning “slender” or “narrow,” Caol was the name of Cael of the Fianna, a warrior-poet in Irish mythology. It evokes imagery of grace and agility, often linked to the sea and movement.

🌄 Cavan (Cabhan)

Pronunciation: KAV-an
Meaning: Meaning “hollow” or “grassy hill,” Cabhan is also the name of an Irish county. It evokes images of Ireland’s rolling landscapes. Though rare as a given name, it carries strong geographic and Gaelic roots.

🕊️ Colman (Colmán)

Pronunciation: KOL-mawn
Meaning: Meaning “little dove,” Colmán was a name borne by many early Irish saints, including St. Colmán of Cloyne. It symbolizes peace and spirituality, making it a historically significant name in Ireland.

🏹 Cedrick (Cedraic)

Pronunciation: KED-rik
Meaning: An old name of uncertain origin, Cedrick may derive from Celtic or Old English roots meaning “kindly ruler.” The Irish form, Cedraic, gives it a Gaelic touch, though the name remains uncommon in Ireland.

🌳 Curt (Cairthinn)

Pronunciation: KAR-hin
Meaning: Meaning “rowan tree,” Cairthinn is linked to wisdom and protection in Celtic folklore. The rowan tree was sacred in ancient Ireland, believed to ward off evil spirits.

🏇 Colter (Coltar)

Pronunciation: KOL-tar
Meaning: Meaning “horse keeper” or “colt herder,” Coltar reflects Ireland’s deep equestrian traditions. It evokes strength and agility, much like the spirited animals it refers to.

⚔️ Callan (Callán)

Pronunciation: KAL-awn
Meaning: Meaning “battle rock,” Callán symbolizes resilience and fortitude. It has been a surname and a place name in Ireland, most notably in County Kilkenny.

🎭 Carlin (Cairlín)

Pronunciation: KAR-leen
Meaning: Meaning “little champion,” Cairlín was traditionally used as a nickname for warriors or spirited youths. The surname Carlin remains common in Ireland, particularly in Ulster.

🌊 Cary (Caire)

Pronunciation: KAR-uh
Meaning: Meaning “marsh” or “dark one,” Caire has old Gaelic origins. Though rare as a first name, it was historically a surname in Ireland and Scotland.

🌊 Cory (Coire)

Pronunciation: KOR-uh
Meaning: Meaning “hollow” or “cauldron,” Coire is linked to Irish landscapes, particularly deep valleys and whirlpools. It symbolizes depth and mystery, making it a unique Gaelic alternative to Cory.

🏔️ Clifford (Clifard)

Pronunciation: KLIF-ard
Meaning: Meaning “ford by a cliff,” Clifford originated as a surname. The Irish adaptation, Clifard, mirrors the rugged Irish terrain. It became a given name in Anglo-Irish families, symbolizing strength and resilience.

🍀 Cieran (Ciarán)

Pronunciation: KEER-awn
Meaning: Meaning “little dark one,” Ciarán was the name of several Irish saints, most notably St. Ciarán of Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland’s earliest monastic founders. It has remained one of the most enduring and beloved Irish names.

That completes our list of names! We hope you found a couple that sparked your imagination or caught your eye. If you made it this far then you’d probably be interested in some of our other lists of Irish names!