30 Irish First Names that Start with L


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If you’re looking for an Irish name that starts with the letter L then you definitely have some options! Most Irish names have developed over the years so we’ve tried keeping as close as possible to the original variations from hundreds of years ago.
We have lots of resources on Irish names that you might find useful. We also have a list of Irish surnames that start with L.
Irish Girls First Names that Start with L
We love the sound of these Irish names for girls that start with L because they really roll off the tongue. Names like Líadan and Lúna are really unique and will help your baby stand out.
⭐ Our Favourite: Liadan
Pronunciation: LEE-uh-dan
First Used: 8th century Ireland
Meaning: Meaning “grey lady” or “misty one,” Liadan was the name of an Irish poet and nun who fell in love with a fellow poet, Cuirithir. Their tragic love story is one of Ireland’s earliest recorded romances, linking the name to poetry, devotion, and longing.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Liadan is beautifully poetic, tied to Irish history and legend. It carries an air of mystery and romance, making it a rare yet deeply meaningful choice that feels timeless and enchanting.
🌿 Lana (Lána)
Pronunciation: LAH-na
Meaning: Derived from the Irish word Lána, meaning “a narrow path” or “lane.” This name symbolizes a journey or direction in life. While not traditionally Irish, it has been embraced as a modern choice with a soft, melodic sound.
🏛 Laoiseach
Pronunciation: LEE-shock
Meaning: Meaning “chief” or “leader” in Irish, Laoiseach carries a regal and powerful connotation. Though rare as a given name, it shares roots with Taoiseach, the title for Ireland’s prime minister, making it a strong and authoritative choice.
🍀 Laoise
Pronunciation: LEE-sha
Meaning: A feminine form of Laoghseach, meaning “radiant” or “light-bringer.” Saint Laoise was associated with early Irish Christianity. The name is linked to County Laois and has been a timeless choice for those seeking a lyrical yet historical Irish name.
🌟 Líosa
Pronunciation: LEE-sa
Meaning: A diminutive of Eilís (Elizabeth), Líosa means “God is my oath.” It has a sweet yet strong presence, with historical ties to noble families in Ireland. The name remains rare but has a modern and elegant appeal.
🏵 Líse
Pronunciation: LEE-seh
Meaning: A short form of Eilís, meaning “God’s promise.” Líse has been a name of nobility in Ireland and beyond, often associated with kindness and devotion. Its simplicity gives it a timeless charm.
🌺 Líadan
Pronunciation: LEE-uh-dan
Meaning: Another spelling of Liadan, this name maintains the poetic and misty allure of its counterpart. It remains deeply connected to Irish bardic traditions and the ethereal beauty of Ireland’s misty landscapes.
🛡 Lorcáin
Pronunciation: LOR-kawn
Meaning: Meaning “little fierce one,” Lorcáin was the name of several medieval Irish kings, including the father of Saint Laurence O’Toole. It carries a strong warrior-like energy and is a powerful name steeped in history.
🌙 Lúna
Pronunciation: LOO-na
Meaning: Likely derived from the Latin Luna, meaning “moon,” but also linked to the Irish Luan, meaning “warrior.” It combines both a celestial softness and a fierce determination, making it an enchanting name with dual meanings.
🌿 Lus
Pronunciation: LUS
Meaning: Meaning “herb” or “flower” in Irish, Lus is a nature-inspired name that evokes imagery of wild Irish meadows. It symbolizes renewal and growth, making it a beautiful and unique choice for those who appreciate nature’s quiet strength.
Irish Boys First Names that Start with L
There isn’t a huge amount of boys’ names that start with L but there are still some very strong contenders. We really like Lonn which means ‘fierce’ and Lughán which means ‘small warrior’.
⭐ Our Favourite: Lir
Pronunciation: LEER
First Used: Ancient Irish mythology
Meaning: Lir is the legendary sea god in Irish mythology, best known from The Children of Lir, a tragic tale of love, loss, and transformation. He represents the power and mystery of the ocean, deeply tied to Ireland’s storytelling traditions.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Lir is a name of pure mythology, evoking the vastness of the sea and Ireland’s deep connection to water. It’s simple yet carries immense weight, making it an unforgettable and timeless Irish name.
🌱 Lusnáin
Pronunciation: LUS-nawn
Meaning: Likely derived from Lus, meaning “plant” or “herb,” Lusnáin has an earthy, grounded essence. While rare, it carries an ancient connection to Ireland’s herbal healing traditions, reminiscent of the country’s long history of using plants in medicine and folklore.
⚡ Lughaidh
Pronunciation: LOO-ee
Meaning: Derived from the god Lugh, associated with light, skill, and warriors, Lughaidh was a name borne by legendary Irish kings and heroes. It carries a sense of leadership, intelligence, and divine favor, making it a name of great historical and mythological significance.
🌞 Lughan
Pronunciation: LOO-an
Meaning: A variation of Lugh, Lughan means “little Lugh” or “radiant one.” It evokes the brightness of summer, as Lughnasa—a festival named after Lugh—marks the beginning of the harvest season. It’s a name that symbolizes prosperity and light.
🏹 Lughán
Pronunciation: LOO-awn
Meaning: Meaning “small warrior” or “skilled one,” Lughán is a diminutive form of Lugh. This name reflects agility and mastery in many crafts, echoing the talents of the legendary deity. It would suit someone quick-witted and capable.
🛡 Lúrach
Pronunciation: LOO-rahk
Meaning: Meaning “armored” or “protected,” Lúrach was the name of several early Irish warriors and nobles. It suggests strength, resilience, and a noble spirit, making it a powerful name with historic roots in Ireland’s warrior class.
🏆 Liam
Pronunciation: LEE-um
Meaning: A shortened form of Uilliam (William), meaning “resolute protector.” Liam has been a dominant name in Ireland for centuries and is internationally famous thanks to figures like Liam Neeson. Its strong yet simple sound makes it one of the most enduring Irish names.
🌿 Liamán
Pronunciation: LEE-uh-mawn
Meaning: A rare extension of Liam, Liamán carries the same meaning of protection but with an added lyrical quality. It may have been used historically as a diminutive or affectionate form, adding a gentle, endearing touch to an already powerful name.
🌊 Libhán
Pronunciation: LIV-awn
Meaning: Meaning “little grey one” or “silver-haired,” Libhán is linked to Irish folklore, notably the legend of Liobhan, a woman transformed into a mermaid. This name carries a mystical, otherworldly feel, tied to Ireland’s deep mythological past.
🎶 Liodán
Pronunciation: LEE-uh-dawn
Meaning: Meaning “little song” or “chant,” Liodán evokes music, poetry, and storytelling. It may have been used for those with bardic talents in ancient Ireland, making it a melodic and artistic name perfect for creatives.
🏔 Lóchán
Pronunciation: LOW-kawn
Meaning: Derived from loch, meaning “lake” or “pool,” Lóchán suggests serenity and depth. It was historically used for several early Irish saints and warriors, adding both spiritual and noble strength to its meaning.
⚔️ Lonn
Pronunciation: LUN
Meaning: Meaning “fierce” or “strong,” Lonn was often used to describe warriors and heroes in Irish history. It carries a no-nonsense, powerful energy, making it an ideal choice for someone with a bold and determined nature.
🛡 Lorcán
Pronunciation: LOR-kawn
Meaning: Meaning “little fierce one,” Lorcán was the name of several Irish kings, most notably the father of Saint Laurence O’Toole. It’s a name of resilience and leadership, blending nobility with warrior spirit.
🎤 Luadh
Pronunciation: LOO-ah
Meaning: Meaning “praise” or “commendation,” Luadh was used to honor those of great deeds. It carries connotations of recognition and celebration, making it a name suited for those who inspire others.
🌙 Luain
Pronunciation: LOO-in
Meaning: Related to Luan, meaning “warrior” or “moon,” Luain blends strength and mysticism. It may also connect to Luan as a word for Monday, symbolizing new beginnings and cycles.
Now that the internet has a definitive list of Irish names that start with L, we hope you found some great options. We have lots of resources on Irish names that we’d love to share.