⭐ Our Favourite: Urian (Uráin)

Pronunciation: YUR-ee-an
First Used: Medieval period
Meaning: Derived from the Welsh Urien, meaning “privileged birth” or “of noble origins.” It carries an air of ancient nobility and power, tied to the legendary King Urien of Rheged.
Why It’s Our Favourite: Urian stands out for its rarity, regal roots, and connection to Arthurian legend. It feels both mystical and strong, perfect for someone who appreciates history and uniqueness.

Irish Girls First Names that Start with U

🧜‍♀️ Ursula (Úrsúla)

Pronunciation: UR-suh-lah
Meaning: Derived from the Latin ursa, meaning “little bear,” Ursula has been used in Ireland due to Saint Ursula’s legend. Popular in medieval times, it saw revival through literature and film. Famous bearers include Ursula Andress and Ursula K. Le Guin.

🌊 Ula (Úla)

Pronunciation: OO-lah
Meaning: A name of debated origins, Ula is linked to the Irish word úl (apple) and Old Norse úlfr (wolf). Used in Ireland and Scandinavia, it suggests strength or sweetness. It has gained popularity as a short, melodic name.

🐻 Ursa (Úrsa)

Pronunciation: UR-sah
Meaning: Meaning “bear” in Latin, Ursa has celestial ties to Ursa Major and Minor. While rare in Ireland, it follows the trend of nature-inspired names. It evokes strength, protection, and the mystery of the night sky.

Irish Boys First Names that Start with U

📖 Ulysses (Uileas)

Pronunciation: YOO-lih-seez
Meaning: Inspired by the Greek hero Odysseus, Ulysses became known in Ireland through James Joyce’s literary masterpiece Ulysses. Though rare as a given name, it signifies adventure and intellect. Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th U.S. president, also gave the name historical weight.

🎶 Usher (Uinseann)

Pronunciation: UH-shur
Meaning: Of Norman origin, Usher comes from an occupational surname for a doorkeeper or steward. In Ireland, it was adopted into the Gaelic Uinseann. Most famous today is R&B singer Usher, but the name also appears in Edgar Allan Poe’s The Fall of the House of Usher.

🏡 Upton (Uptún)

Pronunciation: UP-tun
Meaning: A surname-turned-first-name, Upton means “upper town” in Old English and was brought to Ireland by the Normans. It evokes sophistication and heritage, famously linked to Upton Sinclair, the American novelist who exposed social injustices.

🌌 Urian (Uráin)

Pronunciation: YUR-ee-an
Meaning: A rare and ancient name, Urian is linked to the Welsh Urien, meaning “privileged birth” or “of noble origins.” It has an almost mystical quality, with ties to medieval Arthurian legends, where Urien of Rheged was a powerful British king.

🔥 Uriah (Urái)

Pronunciation: YOO-rye-uh
Meaning: Of Hebrew origin, meaning “God is my light,” Uriah has biblical significance. It was adopted into Irish use through religious influence. The name appears in literature, most notably in Dickens’ David Copperfield, where Uriah Heep is a scheming character.

🏰 Ulric (Uilliam)

Pronunciation: UHL-rik
Meaning: A name of Germanic roots meaning “wolf ruler,” Ulric was historically used in medieval Europe and occasionally in Ireland through Norman influence. It exudes power and command, fitting for warriors and leaders.

⚔️ Uthred (Uathradh)

Pronunciation: OOTH-red
Meaning: A name of Anglo-Saxon origin, Uthred means “noble counsel” and is famously tied to Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a real historical figure popularized in The Last Kingdom series. While rare in Ireland, its strength and medieval charm make it intriguing.

If you found this list interesting then you may want to take a look at some of our other research into Irish names.