Irish names have an enchanting allure, deeply rooted in the island’s rich cultural tapestry. From lyrical Gaelic sounds to names echoing with historical significance, each carries a tale of its own.
Among these, the subset of names commencing with the letter “H” holds a special fascination. In this exploration, we delve into the world of Irish boy names, focusing on the captivating charm and popularity of those beginning with “H.”
Among the plethora of Irish names, those that start with “H” stand out not only for their melodious cadence but also for the profound meanings they encapsulate.
Whether derived from ancient Gaelic roots or influenced by broader European traditions, these names resonate deeply within Irish culture. Let us journey through this collection of “H” names, understanding their allure and uncovering why they remain perennial favorites among parents both in Ireland and beyond.
50+ Irish Names For Boys Starting With H
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Here’s a comprehensive list of Irish boy names starting with “H,” along with their meanings, background, and pronunciation:
Hugh
Meaning: Derived from the Old Germanic name “Hugo,” it means “mind,” “intellect,” or “spirit.”
Background: Hugh has a long history in Ireland, dating back to medieval times. It’s a name that exudes strength and wisdom.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as hyoo.
Harry
Meaning: Though more commonly associated with English origin, Harry also has Irish roots. It’s often a diminutive of “Henry” or “Harold” and means “ruler of the home” or “estate ruler.”
Background: Harry has been used in Ireland for centuries and has been embraced by various communities across the island.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as har-ee.
Hugo
Meaning: Similar to Hugh, Hugo also has Irish connections. It’s derived from the Old Germanic name “Hug” meaning “heart,” “mind,” or “spirit.”
Background: Hugo has gained popularity in recent years and is admired for its continental charm.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as h(y)oo-go.
Harvey
Meaning: While it’s of English origin, Harvey is also used in Ireland. It means “battle worthy” or “blazing iron.”
Background: Harvey has a resilient quality to it, making it a favored choice for parents seeking a name with strength.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as har-vee.
Hubert
Meaning: With roots in Germanic languages, Hubert has been used in Ireland as well. It means “bright heart” or “intelligent.”
Background: Hubert has a distinguished air about it and has been borne by notable figures throughout history.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as hyoo-bert.
Harris
Meaning: Though more commonly used in English-speaking countries, Harris has Irish usage too. It’s often a surname turned first name and means “son of Harry.”
Background: Harris has a familial appeal and is often chosen to honor a family connection.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as har-is.
Harkin
Meaning: A less common Irish name, Harkin is believed to be derived from the Gaelic name “O’hAirtnéide,” meaning “descendant of Airtnéide,” with “Airtnéide” possibly meaning “unknown.”
Background: Harkin carries an air of mystery and intrigue, perfect for those seeking a unique yet meaningful name.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as har-kin.
Hector
Meaning: Hector is of Greek origin, meaning “holding fast” or “steadfast.”
Background: While not native to Ireland, Hector has found its way into Irish culture, perhaps through literary and historical connections.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HEK-tər.
Harold
Meaning: Harold is of Old English origin, meaning “leader of the army” or “ruler.”
Background: While not exclusively Irish, Harold has been used in Ireland for centuries, often in anglicized forms like “Harald” or “Herold.”
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HARR-uhld.
Heath
Meaning: Heath is of Old English origin, referring to uncultivated land covered with heather or shrubs.
Background: Heath carries a rugged, naturalistic vibe and has been embraced by modern parents seeking a nature-inspired name.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as heeth.
Hayden
Meaning: Hayden is of English origin, derived from the surname meaning “hay valley.”
Background: Hayden has gained popularity in Ireland and beyond, appreciated for its modern sound and versatility.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAY-dən.
Henry
Meaning: Henry is of Germanic origin, meaning “ruler of the home” or “estate ruler.”
Background: Henry has a regal charm and has been borne by numerous kings and saints throughout history.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HEN-ree.
Hanley
Meaning: Hanley is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname meaning “descendant of Áinle.”
Background: Hanley has a strong Irish heritage and is often chosen to honor familial connections or roots.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAN-lee.
Hart
Meaning: Hart is of Old English origin, referring to a male deer or stag.
Background: Hart has a rugged, nature-inspired feel and is favored by those seeking a name with rustic charm.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as hart.
Hayes
Meaning: Hayes is of English origin, derived from the Old English word meaning “enclosure” or “hedge.”
Background: Hayes is a surname turned first name and has a timeless appeal, appreciated for its simplicity.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as hayz.
Hagan
Meaning: Hagan is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname meaning “young.”
Background: Hagan carries a youthful energy and has been embraced as a first name in contemporary times.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAY-gən.
Hogan
Meaning: Hogan is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname meaning “descendant of Ogán,” with “Ogán” possibly meaning “young” or “youthful.”
Background: Hogan has a strong Irish heritage and is associated with resilience and strength.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HO-gən.
Huxley
Meaning: Huxley is of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name “Hucc,” combined with “leah” meaning “wood,” “clearing,” or “meadow.”
Background: Huxley has a sophisticated air and is often chosen by parents seeking a distinctive yet familiar name.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HUKS-lee.
Harkin
Meaning: As previously mentioned, Harkin is believed to be derived from the Gaelic name “O’hAirtnéide,” meaning “descendant of Airtnéide,” with “Airtnéide” possibly meaning “unknown.”
Background: Harkin carries an air of mystery and uniqueness, making it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a less common name.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAR-kin.
Horatio
Meaning: Horatio is of Latin origin, derived from the Latin word “horatius” meaning “hour” or “time.”
Background: Horatio has literary connections, most notably through Shakespeare’s character in “Hamlet,” and exudes an old-world charm.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as hə-RAY-shee-o.
Hennessy
Meaning: Hennessy is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname “Ó hAonghusa,” meaning “descendant of Aonghus,” with “Aonghus” meaning “one choice” or “unique vigor.”
Background: Hennessy is associated with strength and vitality and has a proud Irish heritage.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HEN-uh-see.
Hackett
Meaning: Hackett is of Norman origin, derived from the Old French personal name “Haket,” which is a diminutive of “Hac,” meaning “hook.”
Background: Hackett has a distinctive medieval vibe and is favored by those seeking a name with historical flair.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAK-it.
Havelock
Meaning: Havelock is of Old Norse origin, derived from the Old Norse name “Háfleggr,” meaning “sea” and “fire.”
Background: Havelock has a bold and adventurous feel and is associated with legendary figures and heroes.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAV-luk.
Hendrick
Meaning: Hendrick is of Dutch origin, derived from the Germanic name “Heimirich,” meaning “home ruler.”
Background: Hendrick has found its way into Irish culture through historical and cultural exchanges and carries an air of nobility.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HEN-drik.
Hobart
Meaning: Hobart is of Old English origin, derived from the Old English personal name “Hobbe,” combined with “heard” meaning “brave” or “hardy.”
Background: Hobart has a sturdy, no-nonsense quality and is appreciated for its simplicity and strength.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HO-bahrt.
Howell
Meaning: Howell is of Welsh origin, derived from the Old Welsh personal name “Hywel,” meaning “eminent” or “conspicuous.”
Background: Howell has Celtic roots and carries an aura of distinction and honor.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAW-uhl.
Check out these articles for more Irish Boy Names:
Houston
Meaning: Houston is of Scottish origin, derived from the place name “Houston” in Renfrewshire, Scotland, meaning “Hugh’s town.”
Background: Houston has a cosmopolitan vibe and is associated with ambition and leadership.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HYOO-stən.
Huxford
Meaning: Huxford is of Old English origin, derived from the Old English personal name “Hucc,” combined with “ford” meaning “ford” or “river crossing.”
Background: Huxford has a rustic charm and is associated with natural landscapes and rural life.
Huxford
Meaning: Huxford is of Old English origin, derived from the Old English personal name “Hucc,” combined with “ford” meaning “ford” or “river crossing.”
Background: Huxford has a rustic charm and is associated with natural landscapes and rural life.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HUHKS-ford.
Hendrix
Meaning: Hendrix is of Dutch origin, derived from the Germanic name “Heinrich,” meaning “home ruler.”
Background: Hendrix has a rock ‘n’ roll vibe, largely due to its association with legendary musician Jimi Hendrix.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HEN-driks.
Haig
Meaning: Haig is of Armenian origin, derived from the surname of Armenian noble family “House of Haig.”
Background: Haig has a distinguished air and is often associated with aristocratic heritage.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as heyg.
Hanrahan
Meaning: Hanrahan is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname “Ó
hAnnracháin,” meaning “descendant of Annrachán,” with “Annrachán” possibly meaning “having qualities akin to a wolf.”
Background: Hanrahan has a strong Irish heritage and is associated with courage and resilience.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAN-ruh-han.
Harkin
Meaning: As previously mentioned, Harkin is believed to be derived from the Gaelic name “O’hAirtnéide,” meaning “descendant of Airtnéide,” with “Airtnéide” possibly meaning “unknown.”
Background: Harkin carries an air of mystery and uniqueness, making it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a less common name.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAR-kin.
Helgi
Meaning: Helgi is of Old Norse origin, meaning “holy” or “blessed.”
Background: Helgi is a name steeped in Norse mythology, borne by legendary heroes and figures.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HEL-gi.
Hern
Meaning: Hern is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname “Ó hEatháirn,” meaning “descendant of Eathárn,” with “Eathárn” possibly meaning “iron.”
Background: Hern carries a sense of strength and durability and is associated with resilience.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HERN.
Hobson
Meaning: Hobson is of English origin, derived from the medieval given name “Hob,” a diminutive of “Robert,” combined with “son,” meaning “son of Hob.”
Background: Hobson has a timeless quality and is appreciated for its simplicity and familiarity.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HOB-sən.
Holbrook
Meaning: Holbrook is of English origin, derived from the Old English words “hol” meaning “hollow” or “deep” and “brōc” meaning “brook” or “stream.”
Background: Holbrook conjures images of tranquil natural settings and is associated with serene landscapes.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HOHL-bruk.
Homer
Meaning: Homer is of Greek origin, meaning “hostage” or “pledge.”
Background: Homer is famous for being the name of the ancient Greek poet credited with composing the epic poems “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey.”
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HOH-mər.
Harlan
Meaning: Harlan is of English origin, derived from the Old English words “hær” meaning “rock” or “hare” and “land” meaning “land” or “territory.”
Background: Harlan has a rugged, earthy vibe and is associated with strength and stability.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAR-lən.
Harley
Meaning: Harley is of Old English origin, derived from the Old English words “har” meaning “hare” and “leah” meaning “wood,” “clearing,” or “meadow.”
Background: Harley has a bucolic charm and is appreciated for its connection to nature.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAHR-lee.
Hartley
Meaning: Hartley is of Old English origin, derived from the Old English words “heorot” meaning “hart” or “stag” and “leah” meaning “wood,” “clearing,” or “meadow.”
Background: Hartley evokes images of serene woodland settings and is associated with nature and tranquility.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAHRT-lee.
Hawthorne
Meaning: Hawthorne is of English origin, derived from the Middle English word “hagethorn,” meaning “hawthorn tree.”
Background: Hawthorne has literary associations, most notably through American author Nathaniel Hawthorne, and is appreciated for its natural beauty.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAW-thawrn.
Haywood
Meaning: Haywood is of Old English origin, derived from the Old English words “hēg” meaning “hay” and “wudu” meaning “wood” or “forest.”
Background: Haywood conjures images of pastoral landscapes and is associated with rural life and agriculture.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAY-wood.
Hearn
Meaning: Hearn is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname “Ó hUidhrín,” meaning “descendant of Uidhrín,” with “Uidhrín” possibly meaning “sallow-skinned.”
Background: Hearn has a strong Irish heritage and is associated with resilience and endurance.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HURN.
Healy
Meaning: Healy is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname “Ó hÉalaighthe,” meaning “descendant of Éaladhach,” with “Éaladhach” possibly meaning “ingenious” or “skilled.”
Background: Healy is associated with creativity and talent and has a proud Irish heritage.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HEE-lee.
Humphrey
Meaning: Humphrey is of Old German origin, derived from the Old High German name “Hunfrid,” meaning “peaceful warrior” or “peaceful home.”
Background: Humphrey has a distinguished, regal quality and has been borne by numerous nobles and monarchs throughout history.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HUHM-free.
Hyland
Meaning: Hyland is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname “Ó hUallacháin,” meaning “descendant of Uallachán,” with “Uallachán” possibly meaning “proud” or “arrogant.”
Background: Hyland has a proud Irish heritage and is often associated with strength and determination. It is a name that resonates with familial pride and honor.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HAI-lənd.
Hywel
Meaning: Hywel is of Welsh origin, derived from the Old Welsh personal name “Hywel,” meaning “eminent” or “conspicuous.”
Background: Hywel has a rich history in Welsh culture and is associated with wisdom and leadership. It has been borne by several Welsh rulers and saints.
Pronunciation: Pronounced as HUW-el.
Are you looking for more popular first names for your baby? Check out our popular lists of Irish names!
Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 60 countries for the past 12 years. I also lived in 4 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia, Africa and now in Europe. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.