⭐ Our Favourite: Faelyn (Faoláin)

Pronunciation: FAY-lin
First Used: Early medieval Ireland.
Meaning: Derived from faol, meaning “wolf,” Faoláin was originally a surname before becoming a given name. It symbolizes strength, loyalty, and independence, much like the revered wolves of ancient Ireland.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Faelyn captures the wild beauty of Ireland’s landscape and folklore. Wolves were once seen as noble and mystical creatures, embodying both wisdom and resilience. This name feels both ancient and fresh, making it a powerful yet poetic choice.

🌿 Fiona (Fíona)

Pronunciation: FEE-uh-nuh
Meaning: Derived from the Irish word fíon, meaning “vine” or “wine,” Fiona is often associated with elegance and nobility. Though commonly believed to be of Scottish origin, it gained popularity in Ireland in the 20th century. Famous Fionas include writer Fiona Apple and actress Fiona Shaw.

🦢 Finola (Fionnuala)

Pronunciation: fin-OO-lah
Meaning: An ancient Irish name meaning “fair-shouldered,” Fionnuala appears in Irish mythology as one of the Children of Lir, turned into a swan by a jealous stepmother. This name has endured for centuries, with historical figures like Fionnuala Ní Bhrolcháin, an Irish poet, keeping its legacy alive.

📜 Frances (Proinséas)

Pronunciation: FRAN-sis
Meaning: The Irish form of Frances, Proinséas, comes from Latin Franciscus, meaning “French” or “free.” Traditionally associated with Saint Francis of Assisi, the name became common in Ireland through religious influence. Frances Browne, a 19th-century Irish writer, was one of its notable bearers.

🌺 Francine (Proinsín)

Pronunciation: fran-SEEN
Meaning: A diminutive of Frances, Francine carries the same meaning of “French” or “free one.” Though less common in Ireland, it reflects the country’s deep-rooted historical ties with France. It gained traction in the mid-20th century and has a graceful, vintage charm.

⛲ Florence (Flóra)

Pronunciation: FLOR-ence
Meaning: Stemming from the Latin Florentius, meaning “flourishing” or “prosperous,” Florence was introduced to Ireland by Normans. It was a popular choice in the 19th century, particularly for boys, and later became unisex. Florence Nightingale gave the name an enduring association with healing and care.

🌸 Flora (Bláth)

Pronunciation: FLOR-ah
Meaning: Derived from the Irish word Bláth, meaning “flower,” this name embodies nature and renewal. The Roman goddess of flowers, Flora, contributed to its popularity. Though more common in Scotland, it has a poetic feel in Irish-speaking regions, symbolizing beauty and growth.

🔥 Fidelma (Fidelma)

Pronunciation: fih-DEL-ma
Meaning: An old Irish name meaning “ever good” or “constant,” Fidelma appears in medieval history and mythology. Saint Fidelma, an early Christian nun, helped solidify its spiritual significance. It was widely used in early Ireland and remains a distinctive choice today.

🦌 Fiadh (Fiadh)

Pronunciation: FEE-ah
Meaning: Meaning “wild” or “deer” in Irish, Fiadh is a nature-inspired name that has surged in popularity in recent years. Rooted in Ireland’s deep connection to the land and wildlife, it reflects freedom and vitality. It was one of the most popular Irish girls’ names in 2023.

🏰 Fionnuala (Fionnuala)

Pronunciation: fin-OO-lah
Meaning: A longer form of Finola, Fionnuala has deep roots in Irish mythology. One of the most tragic yet beautiful figures in folklore, Fionnuala was a princess cursed to live as a swan for 900 years. The name carries an air of legend and timeless beauty.

🍀 Fallon (Fallún)

Pronunciation: FALL-on
Meaning: Originally an Irish surname meaning “leader” or “descendant of Fallamhain,” Fallon has become a popular first name in recent years. It signifies strength and resilience. The surname was historically associated with learned families, particularly poets and scholars in medieval Ireland.

🌄 Fayola (Fáilí)

Pronunciation: FAW-lee
Meaning: A rare Irish name derived from fáil, meaning “destiny” or “prosperity.” Though not commonly used today, it carries a sense of luck and fate. It has echoes of ancient Ireland, where names often symbolized a child’s future path in life.

🦌 Fauna (Faúna)

Pronunciation: FAW-nah
Meaning: While Fauna is more commonly associated with Roman mythology, the Irish form Faúna is linked to nature and wildlife. It evokes images of Ireland’s lush landscapes and was historically used as a poetic reference to the beauty of the natural world.

🕊️ Fenella (Fionnghuala)

Pronunciation: fin-OO-lah
Meaning: A variation of Fionnuala, meaning “fair-shouldered,” Fenella has strong roots in Irish mythology. It was famously borne by one of the Children of Lir, transformed into a swan for 900 years. The name remains a lyrical and elegant choice.

🏹 Freda (Fríde)

Pronunciation: FREE-duh
Meaning: Derived from Old Irish Fríde, meaning “peace” or “protection,” Freda carries warrior-like strength. It has ties to medieval Ireland, where names symbolized traits of bravery and resilience. Though rare today, it was historically given to daughters of noble lineages.

🔥 Flannery (Flannraí)

Pronunciation: FLAN-uh-ree
Meaning: Derived from Flann, meaning “red” or “ruddy,” Flannery was originally a surname before being adapted as a given name. It carries connotations of warmth and fire, and was famously borne by Irish-American writer Flannery O’Connor, known for her Southern Gothic literature.

⏳ Faira (Fáire)

Pronunciation: FAR-uh
Meaning: Coming from the Irish word Fáire, meaning “watch” or “vigil,” this name evokes themes of guardianship and foresight. Historically, it was associated with night watchmen and seers in old Ireland, symbolizing wisdom and protection.

🍃 Fenna (Feanna)

Pronunciation: FEN-ah
Meaning: Thought to be derived from Féanna, meaning “wild” or “free,” Fenna embodies the untamed beauty of nature. It has connections to early Irish poetry, where it was used to describe windswept landscapes and fierce warriors.

🎇 Felixa (Féilicsa)

Pronunciation: feh-LEE-ksha
Meaning: A rare Irish adaptation of the Latin Felix, meaning “lucky” or “fortunate.” Féilicsa carries an upbeat, positive energy and was sometimes given to girls born into prosperous families. Though uncommon, it symbolizes happiness and good fortune in life.

🌼 Freesia (Frísia)

Pronunciation: FREE-zhah
Meaning: Inspired by the fragrant flower, Frísia is linked to purity and renewal. While not traditionally Irish, it blends well with Irish naming patterns. Freesia flowers symbolize friendship and trust, making this name a poetic choice.

🔆 Fayanna (Fáiana)

Pronunciation: fay-AH-nah
Meaning: Derived from Fáinne, meaning “ring” or “circle,” Fayanna represents continuity and wholeness. It echoes ancient Irish beliefs about eternity and protection, as rings were often worn as talismans.

📖 Filia (Fíle)

Pronunciation: FEE-luh
Meaning: Rooted in Fíle, meaning “poet” in Irish, this name is deeply connected to storytelling and wisdom. Ancient Irish poets, or filí, held high status in society, composing verses that preserved history. Filia embodies creativity and knowledge.

🏹 Ferelith (Ferelíth)

Pronunciation: FAIR-uh-lith
Meaning: An old Gaelic name meaning “true sovereignty” or “ruler of peace.” It was historically given to noblewomen, particularly in Scotland and Ireland. Ferelith symbolizes wisdom and leadership, once associated with medieval queens.

🌿 Fiora (Fíora)

Pronunciation: FEE-or-ah
Meaning: A lyrical name meaning “pure” or “true,” Fíora shares roots with fíor, the Irish word for “genuine.” It evokes sincerity and honesty. While rare, it carries a graceful, ethereal quality.

🍂 Fia (Fia)

Pronunciation: FEE-ah
Meaning: Meaning “wild” or “deer” in Irish, Fia is a nature-inspired name that has surged in popularity. It embodies freedom and connection to the land, fitting for those drawn to nature’s beauty.

Irish Boys First Names that Start with F

There are some great names starting with F, such as Fíobha and Flaith. Especially if you’re looking for twin names, there are some great-sounding pairs in this list.

⭐ Our Favourite: Fiachra (Fiachra)

Pronunciation: FEE-uh-kra
First Used: Early medieval Ireland, linked to Irish mythology and saints.
Meaning: Meaning “raven” or “battle king,” Fiachra is an ancient name with deep mythological roots. In Irish legend, Fiachra was one of the four Children of Lir, transformed into swans for 900 years. The name represents resilience, wisdom, and transformation.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Fiachra is a name with rich storytelling power. It carries both a warrior’s strength and a mystical connection to nature, making it one of the most evocative and timeless Irish names. It’s rare yet deeply embedded in Ireland’s folklore, giving it a truly legendary feel.

🦊 Finn (Fionn)

Pronunciation: FIN (Fyun)
Meaning: Derived from the Old Irish fionn, meaning “fair” or “white.” The name is famously associated with Fionn Mac Cumhaill, the legendary warrior of Irish mythology. It has been used since ancient times and remains a popular choice in Ireland and beyond.

🏹 Fergus (Fearghas)

Pronunciation: FUR-gus (FAR-ghas)
Meaning: A name of strength, meaning “man of vigour.” Fergus Mac Róich was a warrior in the Ulster Cycle of Irish mythology, known for his bravery and loyalty. The name has been in use since medieval times and is common in both Ireland and Scotland.

🔥 Fintan (Fiontán)

Pronunciation: FIN-tan (FYUN-tawn)
Meaning: Meaning “little white fire,” Fintan is linked to Fintan mac Bóchra, a mythical wise man who survived the biblical flood. The name symbolises wisdom and longevity and has been used in Ireland since early Christian times.

🍀 Felix (Féilim)

Pronunciation: FEE-liks (FAY-lim)
Meaning: Féilim, the Irish equivalent of Felix, means “ever good” or “constant.” It has historical significance through Féilim Mac Féilim Ó Néill, a 16th-century Irish nobleman. The name has positive connotations of happiness and success.

📜 Francis (Proinsias)

Pronunciation: FRAN-sis (PRUN-shees)
Meaning: An Irish adaptation of the Latin Franciscus, meaning “Frenchman” or “free one.” Proinsias is widely associated with St. Francis of Assisi and became popular in Ireland through Franciscan monks.

🌊 Finley (Fionnlagh)

Pronunciation: FIN-lee (Fyun-lah)
Meaning: Originally Scottish Gaelic but used in Ireland, meaning “fair warrior” or “white hero.” It was historically popular among Scottish and Irish clans and remains common today.

🍁 Flynn (Flann)

Pronunciation: FLIN (FLAN)
Meaning: From the Irish Flann, meaning “reddish” or “ruddy,” often referring to someone with red hair. Historically, the name belonged to kings and poets in early medieval Ireland.

🛡️ Farrell (Fearghal)

Pronunciation: FAR-uhl (FAR-gal)
Meaning: Meaning “man of valour” or “brave warrior,” this name was common among ancient Irish chieftains, notably Fearghal Ó Taidg, a 9th-century High King of Ireland.

🏰 Fitzgerald (Mac Gearailt)

Pronunciation: FITZ-jer-ald (Mak GYAR-ilt)
Meaning: A Norman-Irish surname meaning “son of Gerald,” Fitzgerald became a powerful name in medieval Ireland, linked to the influential Geraldine dynasty. The family played a key role in Irish history, with figures like Lord Edward Fitzgerald, a leader in the 1798 Irish Rebellion.

⛪ Fitzpatrick (Mac Phádraig)

Pronunciation: FITZ-pat-rik (Mak FAH-drig)
Meaning: Meaning “son of Patrick,” Fitzpatrick is the only Irish surname with the Norman “Fitz” prefix that is fully Gaelic in origin. The Mac Phádraig clan were powerful rulers in Ossory, with a history tied to St. Patrick’s legacy.

🦅 Fiach (Fiach)

Pronunciation: FEE-ukh
Meaning: Meaning “raven” or “hunt,” Fiach is an old warrior name in Irish history. It was famously borne by Fiach McHugh O’Byrne, a 16th-century chieftain who led resistance against English forces in Ireland.

🌿 Fionán (Fionán)

Pronunciation: FYO-nawn
Meaning: Derived from fionn, meaning “fair” or “bright,” Fionán is associated with St. Fionán, a 6th-century Irish abbot and founder of monasteries. The name conveys wisdom and enlightenment.

⚔️ Ferris (Fearghas)

Pronunciation: FER-is (FAR-ghas)
Meaning: A variation of Fearghas, meaning “man of vigour” or “strong warrior.” Historically, it was linked to noble families in Ulster. The surname Ferris remains common in Kerry.

🛡️ Fergal (Fearghal)

Pronunciation: FUR-gal (FAR-gal)
Meaning: Meaning “brave man” or “valorous,” Fergal was the name of High King Fearghal mac Máele Dúin, who ruled in the 8th century. It symbolizes leadership and courage.

🌊 Finbar (Fionnbharr)

Pronunciation: FIN-bar (FYUN-var)
Meaning: Meaning “fair-haired,” St. Finbarr is the patron saint of Cork. His monastery became the foundation of modern-day Cork city. The name is still popular in Ireland today.

🧶 Fielding (Fíodán)

Pronunciation: FEEL-ding (FEE-uh-dawn)
Meaning: A rare Irish name derived from fíodán, meaning “little weaver.” It was historically associated with families of craftsmen and storytellers, preserving traditions through their skills.

🐺 Faelan (Faolán)

Pronunciation: FAY-lawn
Meaning: Meaning “little wolf,” Faolán was a name borne by many Irish kings and warriors. It represents stealth, loyalty, and strength, with strong ties to early Irish clans.

🍀 Finnegan (Fionnagáin)

Pronunciation: FIN-uh-gan
Meaning: Meaning “little fair one,” Finnegan is linked to the famous Irish ballad Finnegan’s Wake, which inspired James Joyce’s novel. It conveys resilience and renewal.

💰 Forbes (Fóibís)

Pronunciation: FORBZ (FOH-bis)
Meaning: Originally a Scottish surname, Forbes was adopted into Irish usage. It means “field” or “prosperity” and is associated with wealth and success. The Forbes family were influential landowners in Ireland during the 17th century.

🏡 Foster (Foistéir)

Pronunciation: FOSS-ter (FOY-ster)
Meaning: Derived from the Old Irish fostóir, meaning “nourisher” or “guardian.” Historically, it referred to foster parents in Gaelic Ireland, where noble children were raised by other families to strengthen alliances.

🏹 Fletcher (Fleitsear)

Pronunciation: FLETCH-er (FLAYT-shar)
Meaning: Meaning “arrow-maker,” Fletcher has Norman-Irish roots and was common among medieval archers. The name became associated with skilled craftsmen in Ireland, particularly during the Norman invasion.

🌉 Ford (Fórd)

Pronunciation: FORD (FOHRD)
Meaning: An anglicised Irish surname from Fórd, meaning “river crossing” or “shallow water.” The name is linked to Irish settlements near fords, where trade and travel flourished.

📜 Flannery (Flannraí)

Pronunciation: FLAN-uh-ree (FLAN-ree)
Meaning: Derived from Flann, meaning “red” or “ruddy,” Flannery was originally a surname of poets and historians. A notable bearer is Martin Flannery, an Irish revolutionary and writer.

🚗 Fiacre (Fiacra)

Pronunciation: FEE-uh-kra
Meaning: Meaning “battle king,” Fiacre was the name of a 7th-century Irish saint who became the patron saint of taxi drivers in France, as Parisian cabs were once called fiacres after him.

🎭 Faust (Faist)

Pronunciation: FOWST (FAYST)
Meaning: A rare name in Ireland, Faist has links to the Germanic Faustus, meaning “fortunate” or “blessed.” It was brought to Ireland through European trade routes.

🔥 Faron (Fárón)

Pronunciation: FAIR-on (FAW-rawn)
Meaning: Meaning “thunder” or “fire,” Faron is an old Irish name with mythological significance, often linked to storm gods and warriors. It remains a unique and powerful choice.

🦅 Fenwick (Feannóg)

Pronunciation: FEN-wik (FAN-ogue)
Meaning: From the Irish feannóg, meaning “raven,” Fenwick has historical ties to Celtic mythology, where ravens symbolised prophecy and wisdom. The name was used by noble families in medieval Ireland.

👑 Floyd (Flaith)

Pronunciation: FLOID (FLAH)
Meaning: Meaning “prince” or “ruler,” Flaith was a common title in ancient Ireland, referring to nobility. It later became an anglicised surname associated with leadership and status.

💍 Faine (Fáine)

Pronunciation: FAYN (FAW-nya)
Meaning: Meaning “ring” or “circle,” Fáine is associated with unity and eternity in Irish symbolism. It has historical ties to ancient Irish jewelry, particularly Claddagh rings, which symbolize love, loyalty, and friendship.

🏛️ Favian (Fábhian)

Pronunciation: FAY-vee-an (FAW-vee-awn)
Meaning: A rare Irish adaptation of the Latin Fabianus, meaning “noble” or “of a bean grower’s lineage.” The name was introduced through Norman influence and remains an elegant, historic choice.

🌊 Finbarry (Fionnbharr)

Pronunciation: FIN-bar-ee (FYUN-var)
Meaning: A variation of Fionnbharr, meaning “fair-haired.” St. Finbarr of Cork, the city’s patron saint, founded a monastery that led to the city’s development. The name conveys wisdom and leadership.

🎭 Flavian (Fláibhian)

Pronunciation: FLAY-vee-an (FLAW-vee-awn)
Meaning: Derived from the Latin Flavianus, meaning “golden-haired,” Fláibhian was used in early Christian Ireland, influenced by Roman names. It symbolizes brightness and prosperity.

🏔️ Fremont (Fríomónt)

Pronunciation: FREE-mont (FREE-oh-mont)
Meaning: Meaning “noble protector” or “guardian of peace,” Fríomónt has roots in both Irish and Norman history. It evokes strength and leadership, with ties to explorers and pioneers.

🌿 Fane (Fán)

Pronunciation: FAYN (FAWN)
Meaning: Meaning “wanderer” or “adventurer,” Fán is linked to ancient Irish travelers and poets who roamed the land, spreading stories and knowledge. The name reflects a free spirit.

🏆 Florin (Flóran)

Pronunciation: FLOOR-in (FLAW-ran)
Meaning: Meaning “flower” or “flourishing one,” Flóran is a name of prosperity. It was inspired by the golden Florin coin, once used in medieval European trade, symbolizing wealth and success.

🦌 Fyfe (Fíobha)

Pronunciation: FIFE (FEE-va)
Meaning: Derived from the ancient Irish kingdom of Fife, Fíobha signifies “land of warriors.” It has strong connections to Irish and Scottish heritage and represents resilience.

🎣 Fisk (Fiosc)

Pronunciation: FISK (FEE-osk)
Meaning: Meaning “fish” or “fisherman,” Fiosc was historically given to families living near rivers and coastal regions. It symbolizes abundance and a deep connection to nature.

🌲 Fraser (Fráiséar)

Pronunciation: FRAY-zer (FRAW-shar)
Meaning: Linked to the Gaelic word for “strawberry” (fraochan), Fráiséar was used by noble families in Ireland and Scotland. It represents growth and sweetness, with a rich heritage.

📖 Finnian (Fionnán)

Pronunciation: FIN-ee-an (FYUN-awn)
Meaning: Derived from fionn, meaning “fair” or “white,” Finnian was borne by several early saints, including St. Finnian of Clonard, known as the “Teacher of the Saints of Ireland.” The name symbolizes wisdom and enlightenment.

👑 Fitzroy (Mac Rí)

Pronunciation: FITZ-roy (Mak REE)
Meaning: Meaning “son of the king,” Fitzroy has Anglo-Irish roots and was historically given to noble families with royal lineage. Though more common in England, it has been used in Ireland since the Norman era.

🕊️ Freeman (Saoránach)

Pronunciation: FREE-man (SEER-aw-nakh)
Meaning: Derived from the Irish saoránach, meaning “free citizen,” Freeman historically referred to someone not bound by feudal rule. It became popular as a surname among Irish emigrants seeking independence abroad.

🍂 Flanagan (Flannagáin)

Pronunciation: FLAN-uh-gan (FLAN-a-gawn)
Meaning: From Flann, meaning “red” or “ruddy,” Flanagan was an ancient Irish surname linked to poets and scholars. It remains a common surname today, particularly in Connacht.

🎭 Faustino (Faustín)

Pronunciation: FOWS-tee-no (FAWS-teen)
Meaning: An Irish adaptation of the Latin Faustus, meaning “fortunate” or “lucky.” Though rare in Ireland, it was introduced through trade with Spain and has been used by Irish families with Iberian ancestry.

🌑 Federico (Feardorcha)

Pronunciation: feh-deh-REE-ko (FAR-dur-kha)
Meaning: Meaning “dark man” or “ruler of peace,” Feardorcha was a name given to noblemen with dark features. It was famously used by Feardorcha Ó Néill, an Irish noble in the 16th century.

🌊 Fabio (Fábhio)

Pronunciation: FAH-bee-oh (FAW-vee-oh)
Meaning: An Irish take on the Latin Fabius, meaning “bean grower.” While uncommon in Ireland, it reflects the country’s historic connections with Italy through trade and the Catholic Church.

Thank you for taking the time to explore our list of Irish names. If you enjoyed this list of Irish names then we bet you’ll also like some of our other research into Irish names.