Celtic Name Generator
Generate authentic Celtic names inspired by Irish, Scottish, and Welsh traditions. Perfect for druids, warriors, and characters from Celtic-inspired fantasy settings.
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About Celtic Names
Celtic names carry the weight of ancient warrior cultures and mystical traditions. Drawing from Irish, Scottish, Welsh, and Breton heritage, these names evoke misty highlands, sacred groves, and legendary heroes. Celtic names often have beautiful meanings connected to nature, war, wisdom, and the otherworld.
Naming Conventions
Celtic names feature distinctive sounds: soft "ch" sounds, melodic vowel combinations, and the characteristic "Mac/Mc" or "O'" patronymics. Many names derive from nature (Rowan, Bryn), virtues (Niamh meaning brightness), or legendary figures (Fionn, Cuchulain). Spelling varies between Irish, Scottish, and Welsh traditions.
Famous Celtic Names
- Cuchulain (Irish mythology)
- Boudicca (Celtic warrior queen)
- Merlin/Myrddin (Welsh tradition)
- Fionn mac Cumhaill (Irish legend)
- Rhiannon (Welsh mythology)
Tips for Using These Names
- Irish and Welsh spellings differ significantly
- Many names have nature meanings
- Patronymics (Mac, O') indicate lineage
- Consider which Celtic culture inspires your setting
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a good Celtic name?
Good Celtic names have melodic sounds with distinctive Celtic phonetics. Names like "Cormac," "Niamh," or "Rhiannon" feel authentically Celtic. Look for soft consonants, flowing vowels, and nature/virtue meanings.
What's the difference between Irish, Scottish, and Welsh names?
Irish: Siobhan, Oisin, Cormac (soft sounds, unique spellings). Scottish: Hamish, Morag, Angus (often Anglicized). Welsh: Rhys, Gwyneth, Dylan (distinctive "Ll," "Dd" sounds, "Wyn" endings). Each tradition has unique patterns.
How do Celtic patronymics work?
"Mac" (Scottish/Irish) means "son of" - MacDonald means "son of Donald." "O'" (Irish) means "grandson/descendant of" - O'Brien means "descendant of Brian." "Ap/Ab" (Welsh) serves similar purpose - "Ap Rhys" means "son of Rhys."
Can I use Celtic names in fantasy settings?
Absolutely! Celtic names suit druids, rangers, fey creatures, and any culture with nature worship or warrior traditions. Modify spellings slightly for a fantasy feel: "Kyaran" instead of "Ciaran," "Rhyannon" instead of "Rhiannon."
What do common Celtic names mean?
Many have nature meanings: Rowan (red tree), Bryn (hill), Dylan (sea). Virtues: Niamh (brightness), Bran (raven, wisdom), Cormac (charioteer). Legendary: Fionn (fair-haired), Maeve (intoxicating), Arthur (bear).
How do I pronounce Celtic names?
Celtic spellings are tricky! Siobhan = "shi-VAWN," Saoirse = "SEER-sha," Niamh = "NEEV," Ciarán = "KEER-awn." Welsh "Ll" is a voiceless L, "Dd" sounds like "th." Research pronunciation for authentic use.
Can I simplify Celtic spellings?
In fantasy settings, yes! "Keiran" for "Ciarán," "Neve" for "Niamh." This maintains the Celtic feel while being readable. Purists may prefer traditional spellings, but accessibility matters for game tables.
What Celtic names work for druids?
Nature-meaning names suit druids: Rowan, Ash, Bryn, Glen. Names of Celtic deities work too: Brigid, Lugh, Cernunnos-inspired names. Druidic titles might be "Archdruid Brennan" or "Wise Fionn."