Irish names carry a unique charm and rich cultural heritage that has captivated people around the world. Rooted in Gaelic tradition, Irish names often evoke images of rolling green landscapes, ancient myths, and timeless Celtic legends. From the beloved classics to the lesser-known gems, each name tells a story and holds a special place in Irish history.
Among the vast array of Irish boy names, those beginning with the letter “I” stand out with their distinctiveness and appeal. These names not only carry the weight of tradition but also possess a modern flair that resonates with parents seeking both heritage and trendiness for their children. Let’s delve into why Irish boy names starting with “I” have gained such popularity in recent years.
Here’s the meaning, background, and pronunciation of each of the 50 Irish boy names that start with “I”:
Ian
Meaning: “God is gracious.”
Background: Ian is of Scottish Gaelic origin and is a popular name in Ireland as well. It’s derived from the name John.
Pronunciation: EE-uhn
Iarla
Meaning: “Earl” or “nobleman.”
Background: Iarla is of Irish Gaelic origin and carries a sense of nobility.
Pronunciation: EAR-lah
Ivor
Meaning: “Yew, bow warrior” or “archer.”
Background: Derived from the Old Norse name Ívarr, Ivor is a name with a strong and noble connotation.
Pronunciation: EYE-vor
Iagan
Meaning: “Little fire.”
Background: Iagan is derived from the Irish Gaelic name Aodhagán and carries a fiery and spirited essence.
Pronunciation: YAG-an
Iain
Meaning: “God is gracious.”
Background: Iain is the Scottish Gaelic form of John and is widely used in Ireland.
Pronunciation: YAYN
Iomhar
Meaning: “Archer” or “bow warrior.”
Background: Iomhar is a name steeped in Gaelic tradition, evoking images of skilled warriors.
Pronunciation: EE-vur or OO-ar
Irvine
Meaning: “Green water” or “fresh water.”
Background: Irvine is of Gaelic origin and conjures images of pristine natural landscapes.
Pronunciation: UR-vin
Isaac
Meaning: “Laughter.”
Background: While not traditionally Irish, Isaac is popular in Ireland. It has Hebrew origins.
Pronunciation: EYE-zik
Iver
Meaning: “Archer” or “bow warrior.”
Background: Iver shares the same meaning as Iomhar but has a slightly different origin.
Pronunciation: EYE-ver
Idris
Meaning: Uncertain; possibly “ardent lord.”
Background: Idris is of Welsh and Arabic origin and has been used in Ireland, though it’s not exclusively Irish.
Pronunciation: ID-ris
Iefan
Meaning: Welsh form of John, “God is gracious.”
Background: Iefan is of Welsh origin and is similar to the Irish name Iain.
Pronunciation: YAY-van
Iolo
Meaning: Uncertain; possibly “yew.”
Background: Iolo is a Welsh name with connections to Irish culture.
Pronunciation: YO-lo
Inis
Meaning: “Island” or “from the island.”
Background: Inis is a name that evokes images of Ireland’s lush landscapes and coastal beauty.
Pronunciation: IN-iss
Ingus
Meaning: Uncertain.
Background: Ingus is a name with obscure origins, possibly derived from Old Norse.
Pronunciation: IN-guhs
Idwal
Meaning: “Lord of the wall.”
Background: Idwal is of Welsh origin but has been used in Ireland, particularly in regions with Welsh influence.
Pronunciation: ID-wall
Ioan
Meaning: Welsh form of John, “God is gracious.”
Background: Ioan is a Welsh name that shares its roots with the Irish name Iain.
Pronunciation: YO-an
Iwan
Meaning: Welsh form of John, “God is gracious.”
Background: Iwan is another variation of the name John, popular in Wales and Ireland.
Pronunciation: YOO-an
Iarfhlaith
Meaning: “Lord of the West.”
Background: Iarfhlaith is a traditional Irish name with roots in Gaelic mythology and history.
Pronunciation: EE-ar-lah
Isidore
Meaning: “Gift of Isis.”
Background: Isidore is of Greek origin but has been used in Ireland due to its association with Christian saints.
Pronunciation: IZ-i-dawr
Iollan
Meaning: Uncertain; possibly “light” or “brightness.”
Background: Iollan is an ancient Irish name with roots in Gaelic mythology.
Pronunciation: YO-lan
Iacchus
Meaning: Uncertain; possibly “healer” or “ivy.”
Background: Iacchus is a name with ancient Greek origins that has found its way into Irish culture.
Pronunciation: ya-KUHS
Iarbas
Meaning: Uncertain; possibly derived from a Carthaginian deity.
Background: Iarbas is a name with obscure origins that has been used in various cultures, including Irish.
Pronunciation: YAR-bas
Iestyn
Meaning: “Fair, just.”
Background: Iestyn is a Welsh name that has been adopted by some in Ireland.
Pronunciation: YEST-in
Ignatius
Meaning: “Fiery one.”
Background: Ignatius is of Latin origin but has been used in Ireland due to its association with Christian saints.
Pronunciation: ig-NAY-shuhs
Iorwerth
Meaning: “Handsome lord.”
Background: Iorwerth is a Welsh name that has been used in Ireland, particularly in areas with Welsh influence.
Pronunciation: yor-WERTH
Ithel
Meaning: “Generous lord.”
Background: Ithel is a Welsh name with connections to Irish culture and history.
Pronunciation: EE-thel
Iberius
Meaning: Uncertain; possibly derived from the Latin word “Iberia” (Spain).
Background: Iberius is a name with Roman origins that has been used in Ireland.
Pronunciation: ih-BEER-ee-uhs
Illann
Meaning: Uncertain; possibly derived from the Irish word “iall” (noble).
Background: Illann is an ancient Irish name with roots in Gaelic mythology.
Pronunciation: IHL-ahn
Iainín
Meaning: Diminutive of Iain, “God is gracious.”
Background: Iainín is a Gaelic diminutive form of Iain and is used as a term of endearment.
Pronunciation: YAY-neen
Ionatan
Meaning: Hebrew form of Jonathan, “God has given.”
Background: Ionatan is a Hebrew name that has been used in Ireland due to its biblical significance.
Pronunciation: YO-nuh-tan
Inda
Meaning: Uncertain; possibly derived from the Irish word “iontas” (wonder).
Background: Inda is a name with obscure origins that has been used in Ireland.
Pronunciation: IN-duh
Inghean
Meaning: “Daughter” or “descendant.”
Background: Inghean is a traditional Irish name that signifies lineage and heritage.
Pronunciation: IN-yen
Ibernia
Meaning: Uncertain; possibly derived from the Latin name for Ireland, “Hibernia.”
Background: Ibernia is a name with Latin origins that has been associated with Ireland.
Pronunciation: ih-BER-nee-uh
Iarlath
Meaning: “Lord of princes.”
Background: Iarlath is a traditional Irish name with roots in Gaelic history and mythology.
Pronunciation: EE-ar-lath
Iolair
Meaning: “Eagle.”
Background: Iolair is a name that symbolizes strength and freedom, often associated with the majestic bird.
Pronunciation: YO-lair
Ishaan
Meaning: “Sunbeam” or “lord of wealth.”
Background: Ishaan is a name of Sanskrit origin that has been embraced by some in Ireland.
Pronunciation: ee-SHAHN
Issacar
Meaning: “He will bring a reward.”
Background: Issacar is a biblical name with Hebrew origins that has been used in Ireland.
Pronunciation: IS-uh-kahr
Ismel
Meaning: Uncertain.
Background: Ismel is a name with obscure origins that has been used in various cultures, including Irish.
Pronunciation: IS-mel
Iaen
Meaning: Uncertain.
Background: Iaen is a name with unclear origins that may have Gaelic or Welsh connections.
Pronunciation: EE-en
Iddo
Meaning: “Timely.”
Background: Iddo is a biblical name with Hebrew origins that has been used in Ireland.
Pronunciation: ID-o
Iorram
Meaning: Uncertain; possibly derived from the Irish word “iorraim” (rowing).
Background: Iorram is a name with connections to maritime activities and coastal communities in Ireland.
Pronunciation: YOR-ram
Iorga
Meaning: Uncertain.
Background: Iorga is a name with unclear origins that may have been influenced by various cultures.
Pronunciation: YOR-guh
Iainle
Meaning: Uncertain.
Background: Iainle is a name with obscure origins that has been used in Irish culture.
Pronunciation: YAYN-luh
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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.