Christmas is one of the most special times of the year, and is made even more special by the arrival of a new baby.
There are a number of names that are perfect for babies born around the festive season, and some are even more beautiful in Irish. For parents searching for a traditionally festive name with a unique twist, there are plenty of Irish names with a special connection to Christmas.
Cuillin – pronounced kwill-in – is the Irish word for holly, which is perhaps the most common name given to baby girls born around Christmas time. Cuillin can be used for both boys and girls, and is actually more common for boys, unlike its english translation. When given to boys, Cuillin can also mean “handsome” or “good-looking.”
Réaltin is another unusual and magical name given to babies who arrive at a special time. It is the Irish word for ‘little star,’ and holds an extra special meaning around the festive period, when the star atop the Christmas tree represents the Star of Bethlehem – which hung above the manger where baby Jesus was born.
Réalta, meaning star, and Réaltin, meaning little star, are magical names for a baby worn around Christmas time
Féirín – pronounced Fair-een – is another unusual name that means ‘little gift.’ As each arrival of a little one is a gift to the world, the name takes on an extra special meaning around the season of giving.
There are few names as perfect for a baby born on Christmas eve as Éabha – pronounced Ay-vah- which translates to Eve.
It is common for Irish babies to be given biblical names if they are born around Christmas time. For girls, Máire – pronounced Moy-rah- is popular, as it is the Irish version of Mary, mother of Jesus. Seosamh – pronounced Show-siv- is the Irish translation of Joseph.
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