Fionn

Meaning of Fionn

The masculine appellation Fionn derives from the Old Irish adjective fionn, meaning “fair” or “white,” and occupies a distinguished position within Celtic onomastics, where it evokes both luminosity and purity. In its original linguistic settings, the name is articulated as fee-uhn (/fi.n̪ˠ/) in Irish, fin (/fɪn/) in Scottish Gaelic and vee-on (/viː.ɔn/) in Welsh, each pronunciation reflecting the phonological conventions of the respective Goidelic and Brythonic traditions. Canonized by the legendary exploits of Fionn mac Cumhaill—whose narratives of leadership, martial prowess and sagacity form a cornerstone of Irish mythic literature—the name bears enduring associations of heroism and wisdom. In the United States, Social Security Administration records indicate that since the late 20th century Fionn has remained in modest but consistent use, with annual registrations rarely exceeding forty male births and national rank positions fluctuating between the 600s and 900s, suggesting a steady niche adoption among parents seeking a name that bridges venerable Celtic heritage and contemporary distinction.