Irish Girls First Names that Start with N

There are some well-known girls’ names that start with N in this list that sound very Irish, such as Noram Noreen, and Nuala.

⭐ Our Favourite: Naoise (Náoise)

Pronunciation: Nee-sha
First Used: Ancient Irish mythology
Meaning: A heroic name from Irish legend, Naoise was a warrior and the tragic lover of Deirdre in Deirdre of the Sorrows. He was known for his bravery and loyalty, making this name synonymous with nobility and epic romance.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Steeped in legend, Naoise represents adventure, love, and tragedy in one of Ireland’s most famous tales. It’s unique, powerful, and distinctly Irish, standing out as a name full of history and depth.

🌊 Niamh

Pronunciation: Neev
Meaning: A name from Irish mythology, Niamh was the daughter of Manannán mac Lir, the sea god. She was known as “Niamh of the Golden Hair” and brought Oisín to Tír na nÓg, the land of eternal youth. It symbolizes beauty, brightness, and an otherworldly charm.

🌟 Nóra

Pronunciation: No-rah
Meaning: Derived from Honora, meaning “honor” or “noble,” Nóra has long been popular in Ireland. It became prominent through literature and poetry, often associated with strong and virtuous women. James Joyce’s wife, Nora Barnacle, helped immortalize the name in Irish history.

🌿 Nora

Pronunciation: No-rah
Meaning: A variant of Nóra, this name is widely used in both Irish and international contexts. It stems from the Latin Honoria, meaning “honor” or “dignity.” It gained popularity during the 19th century and remains a timeless classic, often linked to grace and wisdom.

🔥 Neve

Pronunciation: Neev
Meaning: The anglicized form of Niamh, meaning “bright” or “radiant.” This spelling became more common outside Ireland, particularly due to actress Neve Campbell. It retains the mythological roots of its Irish counterpart, representing light, purity, and an ethereal presence.

⚔️ Nessa

Pronunciation: Ness-ah
Meaning: In Irish legend, Nessa was a warrior queen and the mother of King Conchobar mac Nessa. The name signifies strength and determination. Some link it to the word Neasa, meaning “not gentle,” reflecting its association with a fierce and independent spirit.

🌙 Neila

Pronunciation: Nye-la
Meaning: A rare Irish name believed to be derived from Néala, meaning “champion” or “cloud.” It carries a mystical and airy quality, evoking a sense of dreamlike wonder. While not as common, it resonates with those seeking a poetic and celestial name.

🌼 Noreen

Pronunciation: Nor-een
Meaning: A diminutive of Nóra or Honora, Noreen became widely used in the early 20th century. It carries a vintage charm and is often associated with traditional Irish ballads, including “Come Back to Erin.” It means “little noble one” and embodies warmth and kindness.

🏹 Nuala

Pronunciation: Noo-lah
Meaning: A shortened form of Fionnuala, which means “fair-shouldered.” Fionnuala was a key figure in the legend of the Children of Lir, transformed into a swan for centuries. The name represents grace, endurance, and a deep connection to Irish mythology.

🌊 Niamh

Pronunciation: Neev
Meaning: Another entry for this mythological name, Niamh is forever linked to the sea and the magical land of Tír na nÓg. It carries connotations of eternal youth, beauty, and adventure, making it a beloved choice among Irish names.

🏹 Nuala

Pronunciation: Noo-lah
Meaning: A diminutive of Fionnuala, meaning “fair-shouldered.” In Irish legend, Fionnuala was transformed into a swan in the Children of Lir story. The name symbolizes resilience, grace, and loyalty, with a strong mythical connection to Ireland’s folklore and poetic traditions.

✨ Naomh

Pronunciation: Neev
Meaning: Meaning “saint” or “holy” in Irish, Naomh is a rare and deeply spiritual name. It evokes purity and divine connection, often linked to historical saints and early Christian Ireland. Though uncommon as a given name today, it carries a sense of reverence and sacredness.

⚔️ Neasa

Pronunciation: Ness-ah
Meaning: A legendary name from Irish mythology, Neasa was the warrior queen and mother of King Conchobar mac Nessa. Her name is associated with power, ambition, and leadership. Some interpretations suggest it means “not gentle,” highlighting her fierce determination in shaping Ireland’s legendary past.

🌸 Nóirín

Pronunciation: Nor-een
Meaning: A diminutive of Nóra, meaning “little noble one.” Nóirín became popular in the early 20th century, often appearing in Irish poetry and song. It carries a charming, vintage feel and is associated with warmth and kindness. The name remains an endearing classic in Irish culture.

🎶 Nóirín

Pronunciation: Nor-een
Meaning: Another instance of this beloved name, Nóirín has long been connected to Irish traditional music. Many singers and storytellers bore this name, keeping it alive in cultural memory. It reflects a deep appreciation for heritage and artistic expression.

Irish Boys First Names that Start with N

If you’re looking for boys’ names then you have lots of options. You might want to consider Neidí which is an Irish twist on Neville, or Nátán which means ‘gift from God’.

⭐ Our Favourite: Nemet (Némét)

Pronunciation: NEH-met

First Used: Ancient Celtic era, associated with druidic traditions.

Meaning: Derived from the old Celtic word nemeton, meaning “sacred grove” or “holy place.” In ancient Ireland, nemeta were sacred spaces used for worship and spiritual gatherings by the druids.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Nemet is deeply rooted in Irish heritage and mythology, carrying a mystical and spiritual essence. It stands out as a rare and powerful name, evoking Ireland’s ancient past, nature, and the sacred traditions of the druids. It’s unique, historically rich, and undeniably Irish.

🏹 Nathan (Nátán)

Pronunciation: NAY-thun
Meaning: A biblical name of Hebrew origin meaning “gift of God,” Nathan became popular in Ireland due to its biblical significance. It has been used since medieval times and gained traction in Irish records in the 18th century. Nathaniel Hawthorne and Nathan Carter are notable namesakes.

🏰 Neil (Niall)

Pronunciation: NEEL
Meaning: Derived from the legendary Irish High King Niall of the Nine Hostages, this name means “champion” or “cloud.” It has deep Gaelic roots and was brought to Scotland by the Irish. Neil Armstrong and Neil Jordan are famous bearers of the name.

🏇 Neville (Neidí)

Pronunciation: NEV-uhl
Meaning: A Norman surname-turned-first-name, Neville means “new town” and was introduced to Ireland after the Norman invasion. It became a given name in the 19th century. Neville Chamberlain and Neville Longbottom (fictional) are well-known examples.

📜 Nicholas (Niochlás)

Pronunciation: NIK-uh-lus
Meaning: From the Greek name Nikolaos, meaning “victory of the people.” St. Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus, popularized it. In Ireland, Nicholas was common among the Anglo-Norman elite and later spread to the general population.

🎭 Nico (Níochó)

Pronunciation: NEE-ko
Meaning: A short form of Nicholas, Nico gained popularity in Ireland through European influence. It became well-known due to singer Nico of The Velvet Underground. The name suggests charisma and artistic flair, often associated with performers and musicians.

🌊 Niles (Niall)

Pronunciation: NYLES
Meaning: A variation of Niall, Niles carries the same meaning of “champion” or “cloud.” It was popularized in the US and UK through the sitcom Frasier. It retains a sophisticated, old-world charm, making it a timeless name.

🌟 Nolan (Nólan)

Pronunciation: NOH-lan
Meaning: An anglicized form of Ó Nualláin, meaning “descendant of Nuallán,” which itself means “noble” or “famous.” This surname-turned-first-name is widely used in Ireland and America, thanks to figures like Christopher Nolan.

🏴‍☠️ Norman (Normán)

Pronunciation: NOR-mun
Meaning: Meaning “man from the North,” Norman was brought to Ireland by the Normans in the 12th century. It became common among Anglo-Irish families and later spread beyond. Norman Rockwell and Norman Reedus are famous namesakes.

🎶 Nash (Náis)

Pronunciation: NASH
Meaning: Originally a surname meaning “by the ash tree,” Nash gained popularity as a first name. In Ireland, it was often associated with musicians and poets, including American songwriter Johnny Nash. It carries an artistic and free-spirited energy.

🦅 Ned (Nead)

Pronunciation: NED
Meaning: A diminutive of Edward, meaning “wealthy guardian.” In Ireland, Ned was a common nickname for Éamonn or Edmond. Famous namesakes include Ned Kelly, the infamous Irish-Australian outlaw, and Ned Stark from Game of Thrones.

⛅ Niall (Niall)

Pronunciation: NYE-uhl
Meaning: A legendary name meaning “champion” or “cloud,” made famous by Niall of the Nine Hostages. It remains one of Ireland’s most enduring names, with figures like Niall Horan of One Direction keeping it in the public eye.

🔥 Nevin (Naoimhín)

Pronunciation: NEV-in
Meaning: Derived from naomh, meaning “holy” or “little saint,” Nevin was once a surname before transitioning into a first name. It has a spiritual and noble resonance.

🎭 Nicky (Níochaí)

Pronunciation: NIK-ee
Meaning: A diminutive of Nicholas, meaning “victory of the people.” It’s been popular in Ireland for generations, often used informally. Famous examples include Nicky Byrne of Westlife and Nicky O’Connell, the Irish hurler.

⚓ Nestor (Neastór)

Pronunciation: NES-tor
Meaning: A repeat of Nestor, above, but originally linked to wisdom and Greek mythology. It has persisted in Ireland through historical and literary influences.

👑 Noble (Nóbhal)

Pronunciation: NOH-bul
Meaning: A virtue name meaning “of high rank” or “distinguished.” While more common as a surname, it has appeared as a first name in Ireland, often among families of Norman descent. Noble Johnson, an early Black film pioneer, is a notable bearer.

⛅ Nyall (Niall)

Pronunciation: NYE-uhl
Meaning: A rare spelling of Niall, meaning “champion” or “cloud.” It has the same legendary origins tied to Niall of the Nine Hostages. This variation is sometimes used outside Ireland for a modern twist on a classic name.

🌊 Norland (Nórlann)

Pronunciation: NOR-land
Meaning: Meaning “northern land,” Norland has Scandinavian and Anglo-Irish roots. It evokes images of rugged coastlines and seafarers. Though rare, it has an adventurous feel, appealing to those with a love of nature and exploration.

⚔️ Nijel (Nígeal)

Pronunciation: NYE-jul
Meaning: A unique spelling of Nigel, meaning “dark” or “black-haired.” Originally brought to Ireland by the Normans, it became associated with scholars and warriors.

🌊 Nithan (Níthán)

Pronunciation: NEE-than
Meaning: A rare variation of Nathan, meaning “gift of God.” Though it has biblical roots, it has seen occasional use in Ireland due to its simple yet powerful meaning.

⛪ Naomhan (Naomhán)

Pronunciation: NEE-van
Meaning: An old Irish name meaning “little saint,” often associated with monks and religious figures. It was historically given to those dedicated to the church, preserving its deep spiritual roots.

🏆 Naithan (Naítán)

Pronunciation: NAY-than
Meaning: A unique variation of Nathan, meaning “gift of God.” While less common in Ireland, it carries a strong biblical and historical presence, making it a timeless choice.

🌲 Nolyn (Nólín)

Pronunciation: NOH-lin
Meaning: A modern twist on Nolan, meaning “noble” or “famous.” While Nolyn is a rare variation, its Gaelic roots tie it to historical Irish clans and leaders.

Thanks for taking a look at our research – we hope you found it interesting. We have lots of other resources you might find useful. We also have a list of Irish last names that start with N.