Eirinn
The English phrase "erin" is expressed in Gaelic as Eirinn.
Eirinn is a poetic name for the island of Ireland.
Did you know?
- In mythology, Éire was the name of a goddess who was the first sovereign of the island.
- In the 18th and 19th centuries, 'Erin' became a popular name for girls in the English-speaking world as a romanticized version of Eirinn.
- The name Eirinn is actually a form of the genitive case, meaning 'of Ireland', used here as a poetic noun.
Example conversation
Catriona and Angus are discussing their love for their homeland.
- CatrionaAn bhfuil tú sásta in Eirinn, a Angus?Are you happy in Erin, Angus?
- AngusTá, is iontach an áit í.Yes, it is a wonderful place.
- CatrionaNí bheidh mé ag imeacht as Eirinn go deo.I will never leave Erin.
- AngusIs é sin an rud ceart a dhéanamh.That is the right thing to do.