Explore Irish First Names A-Z

---

Irish Girls First Names that Start with P

Irish names for girls that start with P certainly sound quite regal and mystical, even though there are only a handful. We really like Peigín which is a form of ‘Margaret’.

⭐ Our Favourite: Patricia (Pádraigín)

Pronunciation: pah-DREE-geen
First Used: 18th century Ireland
Meaning: A diminutive of Pádraig, meaning “noble” or “patrician.” Popularized as the feminine form of Patrick, it became widely used in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Patricia carries the weight of Irish history while maintaining a soft and elegant charm. It has been embraced by writers, activists, and artists, giving it a refined yet powerful presence. Its connection to Ireland’s patron saint only strengthens its cultural significance.

✝️ Paula (Póilín)

Pronunciation: PWEEL-een
Meaning: Derived from the Latin Paulus, meaning “small” or “humble.” Póilín is the Irish diminutive, used affectionately. The name is linked to St. Paul, one of Christianity’s most influential figures, and has been popular in Ireland since medieval times.

🌺 Pauline (Póilín)

Pronunciation: PWEEL-een
Meaning: A variation of Paula, Pauline shares its Latin origins, meaning “little” or “humble.” It was introduced to Ireland through religious influences, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries. Pauline McLynn, the Irish actress known for Father Ted, is a notable bearer.

🐦 Pegeen (Peigín)

Pronunciation: PEG-een
Meaning: A diminutive of Peig, itself a form of Margaret, meaning “pearl.” Popularized by The Playboy of the Western World, Pegeen reflects Irish literary and cultural history. The name evokes a sense of warmth and tradition, making it a cherished choice in Ireland.

Irish Boys First Names that Start with P

There are more names for boys than girls, but some of these could be used as unisex names. Of course, Pádraic or Pádraig are classic Irish names that stand the test of time.

⭐ Our Favourite: Patrick (Pádraig)

Pronunciation: PAH-drig / PAH-rick
First Used: 5th century Ireland
Meaning: From the Latin Patricius, meaning “nobleman.” The name became synonymous with Ireland due to St. Patrick, the nation’s patron saint, who helped spread Christianity.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Patrick is the ultimate Irish name, representing resilience, faith, and identity. Its longevity in Irish history, combined with figures like Pádraig Pearse and Patrick Kavanagh, cements it as an iconic and timeless choice. It’s as Irish as a shamrock on St. Patrick’s Day.

✝️ Paul (Pól)

Pronunciation: POHL
Meaning: From the Latin Paulus, meaning “small” or “humble.” Brought to Ireland by early Christian missionaries, it has remained a classic name. St. Paul, one of Christianity’s key figures, influenced its popularity across Europe, including in Ireland.

🏇 Philip (Pilib)

Pronunciation: PIL-ib
Meaning: Derived from the Greek Philippos, meaning “lover of horses.” The name was introduced to Ireland through Norman influence and remained popular due to saints and noble families. Philip Sheridan, an Irish-American Civil War general, brought prominence to the name.

🎯 Pierce (Piaras)

Pronunciation: PEERS
Meaning: A Norman-Irish name meaning “rock” or “steadfast,” derived from Piers, a form of Peter. Piaras Feiritéar, the 17th-century Irish poet and rebel, was a notable bearer. The name has a strong historical and literary presence in Ireland.

📖 Padraic (Pádraic)

Pronunciation: PAW-drig / PAH-drik
Meaning: A literary and poetic form of Patrick, popularized by Pádraic Pearse, a leader of the 1916 Rising. The name has deep nationalistic ties, representing resilience and intellectual strength in Irish history.

☘️ Paddy (Páidí)

Pronunciation: PAH-dee
Meaning: A beloved diminutive of Pádraig, Paddy is both a traditional Irish name and a colloquial term for an Irishman. Páidí Ó Sé, the legendary Gaelic footballer, helped keep the name alive in sporting circles.

🏹 Phelim (Feidhlim)

Pronunciation: FAY-lim
Meaning: Meaning “ever good” or “generous,” this ancient name was borne by several medieval Irish kings. Phelim O’Neill, a key figure in the 1641 rebellion, cemented the name’s historical importance. It symbolizes wisdom and leadership.

🏰 Percival (Parthalán)

Pronunciation: PER-sih-vul
Meaning: Though often associated with Arthurian legend, Percival has Irish roots in Parthalán, a mythological figure who led the first settlers to Ireland. The name signifies adventure and nobility, often linked to knights and explorers.

🔥 Pat (Pádraig)

Pronunciation: PAT
Meaning: A shortened form of Patrick, Pat has been widely used as a casual and friendly version of the name. Pat Spillane, the Gaelic football legend, is a well-known bearer. The name represents tradition and strength in Irish culture.

🐺 Phelan (Faolán)

Pronunciation: FAY-lan
Meaning: Derived from faol, meaning “wolf,” this name symbolizes strength and loyalty. It was common among medieval Irish clans, particularly the O’Byrnes. Phelan is still a surname in Ireland, reflecting its historical warrior connections.

🏴‍☠️ Padric (Pádraig)

Pronunciation: PAD-rik
Meaning: A lesser-known spelling of Pádraig, keeping the traditional meaning of “noble.” This variation was used by medieval Irish scribes and poets, emphasizing its deep historical roots.

📜 Proinsias (Proinsias)

Pronunciation: PRUN-shus
Meaning: The Irish form of Francis, meaning “free man.” Introduced through St. Francis of Assisi, it became popular in monastic circles. Proinsias De Rossa, a politician and journalist, modernized the name’s reputation.

☘️ Pádraig (Pádraig)

Pronunciation: PAW-drig / PAH-rik
Meaning: The definitive Irish form of Patrick, linked to St. Patrick. It symbolizes Irish heritage, faith, and national pride. Writers like Pádraig Pearse and Pádraig Ó Conaire shaped its literary legacy.

Thank you for joining us in our mission to share Ireland with the world. You might be interested in some of our other resources on Irish names.