Michael
Meaning: Who is like God? (a rhetorical declaration of God's greatness)
Origin: Hebrew — from Mikha'el (מִיכָאֵל)
Gender: Boy
Rank in Ireland: #2
Total births: 55,538
History: Michael has deep roots in Irish life, from Archangel Michael devotions in medieval monasteries to revolutionary leader Michael Collins of County Cork. The name dominated Irish baptismal records throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, especially in Munster. Collins, the 'Big Fella' who negotiated the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921, made it a name synonymous with Irish independence. In GAA circles, Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh became the beloved voice of hurling and football.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Ireland’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (2025) | #22 |
| Babies named Michael in 2025 | 188 |
| Total recorded in Ireland | 55,538 |
| Peak year | 1964 (2,157 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #2 |
| Years in records | 1964–2025 (62 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↓ 5 spots |
Frequently asked about Michael
What does the name Michael mean?
Michael means “Who is like God? (a rhetorical declaration of God's greatness)” from Hebrew — from Mikha'el (מִיכָאֵל) roots.
What is the origin of the name Michael?
Michael has Hebrew — from Mikha'el (מִיכָאֵל) origin. The traditional meaning is “Who is like God? (a rhetorical declaration of God's greatness)”.
How popular is Michael in Ireland?
Michael ranked #22 in Ireland in 2025 — given to 188 babies that year.
When was Michael most popular?
Michael peaked in 1964 with 2,157 babies registered that year in Ireland.
Is Michael a boy or girl name?
Michael is predominantly a boys' name in Ireland — over 90% of Michaels in registered births are male.
How long has Michael been recorded in Ireland?
Michael appears in birth records in Ireland across 62 years — from 1964 through 2025.