Seán
/ʃɑːn̪ˠ/masculine
The Irish name for John is Seán. Wiktionary also lists Eoin.
Meaning: male given name (name)
Ways to say it
| Irish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Seán | /ʃɑːn̪ˠ/ (Munster) /ʃɑːnˠ/ (Connacht) |
masculine |
| Eoin | /oːnʲ/ /õːnʲ/ |
masculine |
The name is used as a masculine given name.
Which one should you use?
While Seán is the most common form of the name, Eoin is a common alternative used primarily in certain Irish-speaking regions or traditions.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Eoin is used primarily in certain Irish-speaking regions or traditions.
How do you pronounce it?
/ʃɑːn̪ˠ/
Did you know?
- Seán entered Irish via the Old French name Jehan rather than directly from Latin.
- In Irish culture, the name Seán is often used in the phrase Seánín, which is a diminutive form used to express affection for a young boy.
- While Seán is the standard modern form, Eoin preserves a much older Old Irish tradition of the name.
Examples in context
- Seán is ainm dom.My name is John.This sentence is useful for stating that Seán is your name.Tatoeba #3598662 by JimiYoru, translation #1098122 by cntrational
- Seán, conas atá tú?John, how are you?
- Tá mé ag dul amach le Eoin anocht.I'm going out with John tonight.
- An bhfuil Seán anseo?Is Seán here?
Example conversation
Siobhán and Oisín are talking about a friend.
- SiobhánAr fheiceann tú Seán?Do you see Seán?
- OisínNíl sé anseo, a Siobhán.He is not here, Siobhán.
- SiobhánCá bhfuil Seán?Where is Seán?
- OisínTá sé sa bhóthar.He is on the road.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “john” translations and entries Seán, Eoin, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Eoin, Seán, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
