Irish Girls First Names that Start with D

When it comes to girls’ names, there are some classics you can choose from, such as Dara or Dáisí. There are also some great alternatives in this list so make sure you read on to find the perfect choice!

⭐ Our Favourite: Dervla (Dearbháil)

Pronunciation: DUR-vla
First Used: Medieval Ireland
Meaning: ‘True desire’ or ‘true pledge.’ It was the name of noblewomen in Irish history, symbolizing loyalty and devotion.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Dervla stands out due to its historical significance, connection to Irish nobility, and the strength it conveys through its meaning. It’s rare yet elegant, making it a perfect blend of heritage and charm.

🌼 Daisy (Déisí)

Pronunciation: DAY-zee
Meaning: Derived from the Old Irish ‘Déisí,’ referring to an ancient tribe in Munster. The name also reflects the cheerful daisy flower, symbolizing innocence and purity. Though more common in English-speaking countries, it retains a charming Irish heritage.

🌳 Dara (Dara)

Pronunciation: DAH-rah
Meaning: Means ‘oak tree’ in Irish, symbolizing strength and wisdom. Used for both boys and girls, it has roots in Irish mythology, including the wise druid Dara. It remains a popular choice in Ireland today.

🎭 Darcy (Dáirine)

Pronunciation: DAR-see
Meaning: Comes from ‘Dáirine,’ an ancient Irish princess linked to the High Kings. Often associated with nobility and elegance, the name gained popularity in English-speaking countries, partly due to literary influences like Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice.

💔 Deirdre (Deirdre)

Pronunciation: DEER-druh
Meaning: A legendary tragic heroine in Irish mythology, Deirdre of the Sorrows was famed for her beauty and heartbreak. The name symbolizes deep emotion and poetic melancholy, making it a timeless classic in Irish storytelling.

🌬️ Doireann (Doireann)

Pronunciation: DUR-in
Meaning: Derived from ‘stormy’ or ‘tempestuous’ in Irish, Doireann is linked to ancient Irish tales and folklore. It evokes mystery and power, much like the unpredictable Irish weather.

✨ Dymphna (Damhnait)

Pronunciation: DIMF-nuh
Meaning: Saint Dymphna, an early Irish saint, is the patron of mental health and trauma survivors. Her story of fleeing Ireland for safety made her a powerful symbol of resilience and compassion.

🌅 Dawn (Fáinne)

Pronunciation: DAWN
Meaning: The Irish equivalent, Fáinne, means ‘ring’ or ‘circle,’ symbolizing eternity and renewal. The name Dawn reflects the beauty of new beginnings, much like the golden glow over Ireland’s coastline.

🙏 Danielle (Dainéil)

Pronunciation: dan-YELL
Meaning: The Irish form of Danielle stems from biblical origins, meaning ‘God is my judge.’ It’s a name with both spiritual and modern appeal, often seen as a strong and independent choice.

🏝️ Dina (Díona)

Pronunciation: DEE-nah
Meaning: In Irish, Díona relates to ‘protection’ or ‘fortress.’ It carries connotations of safety and strength, making it a powerful name choice with a unique Gaelic twist.

🌿 Darina (Dairíne)

Pronunciation: DAH-ree-nah
Meaning: A variation of ‘Dáirine,’ an ancient Irish princess’s name. It signifies nobility and grace, with connections to early Irish royalty. Darina has become popular in both Ireland and Eastern Europe, where it carries meanings of ‘gift’ or ‘precious one.’

🚗 Dacia (Dáisí)

Pronunciation: DAY-sha
Meaning: Rooted in Old Irish ‘Dáisí,’ linked to the Déisi tribe of Munster. It also connects to the ancient region of Dacia, now Romania, giving it a strong historical and geographic resonance. A rare yet distinguished name.

🏇 Donnacha (Donncha)

Pronunciation: DON-uh-ka
Meaning: Meaning ‘brown warrior’ in Irish, Donnacha was the name of an 11th-century High King of Ireland. It embodies strength and leadership, making it a timeless and powerful choice in Ireland today.

🏰 Dionne (Díona)

Pronunciation: DEE-on
Meaning: Derived from ‘Díona,’ meaning ‘fortified’ or ‘protected’ in Irish. It suggests resilience and safety. Though more common in France and the U.S., its Irish variant carries a strong sense of security and heritage.

📜 Dervilla (Dearbháil)

Pronunciation: DUR-vil-ah
Meaning: Meaning ‘true desire’ or ‘true pledge,’ Dervilla is an ancient name borne by noblewomen in medieval Ireland. It represents loyalty and devotion, often associated with Irish history and poetry.

⛪ Decla (Deaglán)

Pronunciation: DEK-lah
Meaning: A rare feminine form of Deaglán, linked to Saint Declan, one of Ireland’s earliest Christian missionaries. It carries a spiritual and historical significance, tied to Waterford and early Irish Christianity.

🍃 Daraí (Daraí)

Pronunciation: DAH-ree
Meaning: A lesser-known variation of Dara, meaning ‘oak tree.’ It symbolizes wisdom and endurance in Celtic tradition. Rare but deeply rooted in Irish nature and mythology.

🌊 Daria (Dairia)

Pronunciation: DAH-ree-ah
Meaning: Possibly derived from the Irish word ‘dair’ (oak) or influenced by the Persian name Darius. While more common in Slavic countries, its Irish form retains a strong natural and noble connection.

🍯 Dulcie (Dulsaí)

Pronunciation: DUL-see
Meaning: From the Irish ‘Dulsaí,’ meaning ‘sweet’ or ‘gentle.’ The name radiates warmth and kindness, much like its Latin-rooted counterpart, Dulcia. A rare but charming choice in Irish history.

🎀 Dottie (Dótaí)

Pronunciation: DOT-ee
Meaning: Derived from ‘Dótaí,’ meaning ‘gifted’ or ‘admirable’ in Irish. Often used as a nickname for Dorothy, its Irish variation gives it a playful yet strong character.

🍃 Daraín (Daraín)

Pronunciation: DAH-reen
Meaning: A lesser-known variant of Dara, meaning ‘little oak’ in Irish. The oak tree symbolizes strength and wisdom in Celtic mythology. This rare name carries deep roots in Irish nature and tradition.

👑 Dairine (Dáirine)

Pronunciation: DAW-reen-ya
Meaning: An ancient Irish princess’s name, associated with the royal line of Tara. It signifies nobility, leadership, and historical prestige. Dairine appears in early Irish legends, making it a regal and timeless choice.

🌊 Davia (Dáibhia)

Pronunciation: DAH-vee-ah
Meaning: Possibly linked to the Irish ‘Dáibhí,’ meaning ‘beloved’ or ‘from the sea.’ This name has a soft yet powerful resonance, reflecting both affection and nature’s vastness.

✨ Davina (Dabhíne)

Pronunciation: da-VEE-nah
Meaning: Derived from ‘Dabhíne,’ an old Irish name meaning ‘dear’ or ‘favored.’ Though more commonly known in Scotland, its Irish roots tie it to warmth and cherished relationships.

🌺 Diora (Diora)

Pronunciation: DEE-oh-rah
Meaning: A modern Irish name possibly linked to ‘diura,’ meaning ‘teardrop.’ It carries a poetic and ethereal quality, symbolizing beauty and deep emotion.

🌼 Diantha (Diantha)

Pronunciation: dee-AN-tha
Meaning: Though Diantha has Greek origins meaning ‘divine flower,’ it aligns with Irish floral symbolism, representing purity and resilience. A rare yet elegant choice.

🏞️ Dellen (Dellen)

Pronunciation: DEL-en
Meaning: Possibly derived from the Irish ‘doillean,’ meaning ‘little valley’ or ‘hidden place.’ This name evokes a sense of mystery and tranquility, perfect for nature lovers.

🎭 Dellaney (Dallánaí)

Pronunciation: del-AN-ee
Meaning: From ‘Dallánaí,’ meaning ‘descendant of the blind one.’ This name has historical depth, linked to early Irish surnames, and is now a stylish first name with a lyrical quality.

📜 Dallan (Dallán)

Pronunciation: DAH-lan
Meaning: Meaning ‘little blind one,’ Dallán is famously associated with the 6th-century Irish poet Dallán Forgaill, who wrote Amra Choluim Cille. It carries poetic and intellectual weight.

🌟 Dessa (Deasúna)

Pronunciation: DESS-ah
Meaning: Derived from ‘Deasúna,’ meaning ‘southern’ or ‘graceful’ in Irish. It exudes elegance and a warm, welcoming spirit, making it a unique but fitting name choice.

🍃 Daraine (Dáraine)

Pronunciation: DAH-rin-ya
Meaning: A rare Irish name, possibly linked to ‘Dáirine,’ meaning ‘noble’ or ‘descendant of kings.’ It has regal connotations and is reminiscent of the powerful women of early Irish history, carrying both grace and strength.

🌸 Delyth (Déilidh)

Pronunciation: DEL-ith
Meaning: Though Delyth has Welsh origins meaning ‘pretty’ or ‘neat,’ its Irish adaptation, Déilidh, conveys elegance and charm. It’s a soft yet dignified name that suits those with a refined and graceful presence.

🏰 Donnelle (Donnelle)

Pronunciation: DON-ell
Meaning: Derived from ‘Donn,’ meaning ‘brown-haired’ or ‘chieftain’ in Irish. Donnelle carries a noble and warrior-like energy, reflecting the leadership of ancient Gaelic clans. It has historical depth yet feels modern and sophisticated.

Irish Boys First Names that Start with D

There were quite a lot of names to choose from for boys so we collected some of the best ones, such as ‘the brown warrior’ Donnchadh and Dathí who was once a King of Ireland.

⭐ Our Favourite: David (Dáithí)

Pronunciation: DAH-hee
First Used: Ancient Ireland, 6th century
Meaning: “Swift” – historically associated with the last pagan High King of Ireland.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Dáithí carries both royal significance and a vibrant meaning. As the name of a legendary king, it symbolizes agility and leadership, making it a name that echoes through Ireland’s history with strength and power.

🛡️ Daniel (Dónall)

Pronunciation: DOH-nal
Meaning: Dónall, derived from “Domhnall,” means “world ruler” or “mighty chief.” It has strong historical ties to ancient Irish kings and chieftains, emphasizing leadership and power.

⚡ Darren (Darrán)

Pronunciation: DAH-ran
Meaning: Darrán is a modern adaptation of an older Irish name, possibly linked to “dair,” meaning oak, symbolizing strength and resilience. It’s a popular name in Ireland and the UK.

🔥 Dean (Déan)

Pronunciation: DAYN
Meaning: While Dean is an English-origin name, Déan could be linked to “déanamh,” meaning “to do” or “create” in Irish, symbolizing action and purpose.

🎯 Derek (Deiric)

Pronunciation: DEH-rik
Meaning: Deiric is an Irish variant of Theodoric, meaning “ruler of the people.” It carries noble and leadership connotations, fitting for someone with a strong, decisive nature.

🌊 Dylan (Díolún)

Pronunciation: DEE-lun
Meaning: Díolún may derive from “díol” (payment) or be an Irish twist on Dylan, meaning “son of the sea” in Welsh. It evokes images of fluidity and strength, much like the ocean.

🍀 Declan (Deaglán)

Pronunciation: DECK-lan
Meaning: Deaglán is associated with Saint Declan, an early Christian missionary in Ireland. It means “full of goodness,” symbolizing faith and virtue.

⚖️ Damian (Damáin)

Pronunciation: DAH-mun
Meaning: Damáin comes from the Greek “Damianos,” meaning “to tame” or “subdue.” It was popularized by Saint Damian, one of the twin healer saints, representing healing and protection.

🌿 Darragh (Darragh)

Pronunciation: DAH-rah
Meaning: Darragh comes from “dair,” meaning “oak tree,” a symbol of wisdom and endurance in Irish culture. It’s a nature-inspired name with deep Celtic roots.

🏰 Desmond (Deasún)

Pronunciation: DESS-mund
Meaning: Deasún derives from “Deas-Mhumhain,” meaning “South Munster.” It was historically used for nobles from this Irish region, carrying aristocratic and historical weight.

🏴 Donovan (Donabhán)

Pronunciation: DON-uh-van
Meaning: Donabhán means “dark warrior” from “donn” (brown, dark) and “bhán” (little). It was a surname of a notable Irish chieftain in Munster, symbolizing strength and resilience in battle.

🌳 Daire (Daire)

Pronunciation: DAH-ra
Meaning: Meaning “fruitful” or “oak tree,” Daire was a name borne by legendary Irish kings and warriors. The oak tree represents wisdom, endurance, and strength in Celtic tradition.

⚔️ Diarmuid (Diarmuid)

Pronunciation: DEER-mid
Meaning: Famous in Irish mythology, Diarmuid was the tragic hero of “Diarmuid and Gráinne.” His name means “free from envy,” reflecting his noble and chivalrous nature.

👑 Donal (Dónall)

Pronunciation: DOH-nal
Meaning: Dónall means “world ruler” or “mighty chief,” an ancient name linked to Irish kings and warriors. It conveys leadership and strength, appearing in Gaelic history for centuries.

🌊 Douglas (Dubhglas)

Pronunciation: DOO-glass
Meaning: Dubhglas comes from “dubh” (dark) and “glas” (stream), meaning “dark river.” It was historically a place-based surname, evoking nature and flowing water’s unstoppable force.

🏹 Dermot (Diarmuid)

Pronunciation: DEER-mut
Meaning: A variant of Diarmuid, Dermot means “without envy” and was popular among Irish kings and warriors. It signifies fairness and strength, with deep mythological roots.

🏰 Dempsey (Deasmhumhnaigh)

Pronunciation: DEM-see
Meaning: Meaning “man of South Munster,” Deasmhumhnaigh was a surname for a noble Irish family. It reflects heritage, regional identity, and historical prominence.

🔥 Dervin (Dearbhán)

Pronunciation: DUR-vin
Meaning: Related to “dearbh” (certainty, truth), Dearbhán signifies honesty and steadfastness. It’s a lesser-known name but carries a strong and noble meaning.

⚡ Dillon (Diolún)

Pronunciation: DILL-un
Meaning: Diolún may derive from “díol” (payment) or be an Irish take on Dillon, meaning “loyal one.” It symbolizes faithfulness and honor in old Irish history.

🎭 Dacey (Dásach)

Pronunciation: DAY-see
Meaning: Dásach means “spirited” or “full of energy,” a lively name reflecting enthusiasm and boldness. It was used to describe warriors and poets with unbreakable passion.

🏆 Donncha (Donncha)

Pronunciation: DUN-uh-ka
Meaning: Donncha, meaning “brown warrior,” was the name of many Irish kings and warriors. It symbolizes bravery and noble lineage, with Donncha O’Brien being a notable medieval Irish ruler.

🎩 Darby (Diarmuid)

Pronunciation: DAR-bee
Meaning: Darby is an Anglicized form of Diarmuid, meaning “free from envy.” It gained popularity as a given name and surname, often associated with Irish folklore and nobility.

🏔️ Davin (Dáimhín)

Pronunciation: DAH-veen
Meaning: A rare Irish name, Dáimhín comes from “dámh” (fawn or poet), symbolizing gentleness and creativity. It carries an artistic and nature-inspired meaning.

🌑 Duane (Dubhán)

Pronunciation: DWAYN
Meaning: Dubhán, meaning “little dark one,” was the name of an early Irish saint. It evokes mystery and depth, historically used among warrior families.

⚔️ Doyle (Ó Dubhghaill)

Pronunciation: DOYL
Meaning: Meaning “descendant of the dark stranger,” Ó Dubhghaill referred to Norse settlers in Ireland. It became a famous surname linked to resilience and warrior heritage.

🏰 Dunstan (Dúnstán)

Pronunciation: DUN-stan
Meaning: Dúnstán, meaning “fortress stone,” has Anglo-Irish roots. It symbolizes protection and strength, fitting for warriors and leaders throughout history.

🍀 Daireán (Daireán)

Pronunciation: DAH-ran
Meaning: A lesser-known variant of Daire, it means “fruitful” or “oak-like,” reflecting wisdom and prosperity. It is deeply rooted in Celtic mythology.

🌊 Driscoll (Ó Drisceoil)

Pronunciation: DRISS-kul
Meaning: Meaning “descendant of Drisceol,” this name is tied to a historic Munster family. It conveys leadership and maritime strength, as many Driscolls were seafarers.

⚡ Dáithí (Dáithí)

Pronunciation: DAH-hee
Meaning: Meaning “swift,” Dáithí was the name of the last pagan High King of Ireland. It symbolizes agility, power, and a connection to Ireland’s ancient ruling class.

👁️ Dallan (Dallán)

Pronunciation: DAL-an
Meaning: Dallán, meaning “little blind one,” was the name of a 6th-century poet-saint, known for his wisdom despite his blindness. It represents intelligence and resilience.

🏆 Duncan (Donnchadh)

Pronunciation: DUN-ka
Meaning: Donnchadh means “brown warrior” and was a name borne by kings of Ireland and Scotland. It signifies strength and leadership, famously associated with King Duncan I of Scotland, later dramatized in Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

🏰 Donagh (Dónagh)

Pronunciation: DOH-nah
Meaning: Dónagh, derived from “Donnchadh,” means “brown-haired warrior” or “chieftain.” It was historically popular among Gaelic nobility, carrying a sense of heritage and power.

🌿 Deverell (Deverell)

Pronunciation: DEV-er-ell
Meaning: Thought to have Norman-Irish roots, Deverell refers to a place name meaning “of the riverbank.” It symbolizes flowing strength and connection to nature, making it a unique choice.

📖 Dáibhí (Dáibhí)

Pronunciation: DAH-vee
Meaning: The Irish form of David, Dáibhí means “beloved” and has biblical roots. It was used by Irish poets and scholars, symbolizing wisdom and devotion.

🌳 Doire (Doire)

Pronunciation: DUR-eh
Meaning: Meaning “oak grove,” Doire reflects strength, endurance, and connection to nature. It appears in place names like Derry, one of Ireland’s most historic cities.

⚡ Dathí (Dathí)

Pronunciation: DAH-hee
Meaning: Dathí was a legendary High King of Ireland, one of the last pagan rulers. His name suggests “swift” or “noble,” embodying leadership and warrior prowess.

🍀 Dáibhín (Dáibhín)

Pronunciation: DAH-veen
Meaning: A diminutive of Dáibhí, Dáibhín means “little beloved one.” It carries a gentle yet noble meaning, often used affectionately in Irish-speaking families.

🌙 Darnell (Darnell)

Pronunciation: DAR-nell
Meaning: Though of English origin, Darnell was adopted into Irish usage. It means “hidden nook” or “hidden place,” evoking mystery and protection.

🎭 Dacey (Dásach)

Pronunciation: DAY-see
Meaning: Dásach means “spirited” or “full of passion,” often used to describe poets and warriors. It represents energy, enthusiasm, and a bold personality.

🔥 Deasún (Deasún)

Pronunciation: DASS-oon
Meaning: The Irish form of Desmond, Deasún refers to “one from South Munster.” It was historically tied to noble families, symbolizing prestige and heritage.

⚔️ Diarmaid (Diarmaid)

Pronunciation: DEER-mid
Meaning: Diarmaid means “free from envy” and is deeply tied to Irish mythology. The most famous bearer is Diarmaid Ua Duibhne, the tragic warrior from The Pursuit of Diarmaid and Gráinne. The name symbolizes bravery, loyalty, and forbidden love, making it one of Ireland’s most legendary names.

We hope you found this list useful and found some great options if you’re expecting a baby (congratulations if you are!)

You might also be interested in some of our other lists of Irish names, or perhaps some of our surnames that start with the letter D.