Éirinn
/ˈeːɾʲɪɲ/
The English phrase 'erin' translates to the Irish word Éirinn, which is a poetic or literary name for Ireland.
Éirinn is used in a literary or poetic context to refer to the country of Ireland.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈeːɾʲɪɲ/
Did you know?
- In the Tuatha Dé Danann legends, Ériu was one of three sisters who represented the island. Her sisters were Banba and Fódla, who are also ancient names for Ireland.
- While Éirinn is the poetic name, the everyday Irish word for the country is Éire. In the Irish language, Éirinn is actually the genitive case form of Éire, meaning it is used when the country is possessing something.
- English speakers often use the word 'Erin' as a female given name. This is an anglicized version of Éirinn, used to evoke a sense of heritage and connection to the land.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a book of poetry.
- AoifeAn bhfuil an dán seo faoi Éirinn?Is this poem about Éirinn?
- CathalTá, tá sé an-bhágoch.Yes, it is very poignant.
- AoifeIs breá liom an bhealach a chur sí in iúl.I love the way it describes her.
- CathalIs é sin an t-athraú is fearr.That is the best version.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Éirinn, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
