Fionnuala Ní Dhomhnaill
Renowned Irish poet and scholar, key figure in reviving Irish-language poetry.
IPA Pronunciation
fʲɪˈnuːlə
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Syllables
Fionuala is an Irish Gaelic name derived from 'Fionnuala,' meaning 'fair' or 'white' (fionn) and 'shoulder' (guala). The name originates in Irish mythology, where Fionnuala was a daughter of Lir transformed into a swan. It symbolizes purity, grace, and transformation.
Cultural Significance of Fionuala
Fionuala holds deep roots in Irish mythology and folklore as the daughter of Lir who was cursed and transformed into a swan for 900 years. This story symbolizes endurance, transformation, and the supernatural. The name remains a cherished emblem of Irish heritage, evoking themes of beauty, resilience, and the mystical connection to nature.
Fionuala Name Popularity in 2025
Though uncommon outside Ireland, Fionuala has seen a gentle resurgence as parents seek meaningful, culturally rich names. It’s favored by those wanting a unique, lyrical name with mythological depth. The name appears mostly in literary and artistic circles, representing a bridge between tradition and contemporary identity.
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More Girl Names Starting With F10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Fionuala carries the essence of “White shoulder” from Irish Gaelic tradition. Names beginning with "F" often embody qualities of family devotion, harmony, and compassion.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Fionuala holds deep roots in Irish mythology and folklore as the daughter of Lir who was cursed and transformed into a swan for 900 years. This story symbolizes endurance, transformation, and the supernatural. The name remains a cherished emblem of Irish heritage, evoking themes of beauty, resilience, and the mystical connection to nature.
Fionnghuala O'Reilly
Irish-American model and scientist, known for advocacy of STEM and diversity.
Fionnuala Sweeney
Irish television news anchor and journalist with international recognition.
Fionnuala Flanagan
Actress
Fionnuala Sherry
Musician
Fionnuala Ní Aoláin
Lawyer
The Secret of Kells ()
Song of the Sea ()
Daughters of Lir ()
The Field ()
The Irish RM ()
Brooklyn ()
The Tudors ()
Penny Dreadful ()
Parents: James Douglas and Sarah Douglas
Fionuala
🌐Spanish
Fionuala
🌐French
Fionuala
🌐German
Fionuala
🌐Italian
フィオヌラ (Fionura)
🌐Japanese
菲欧努拉 (Fēi ōu nǔ lā)
🌐Chinese
فيونولا
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Fionuala
Fionuala’s mythological story inspired several Irish poems and songs, celebrating her transformation into a swan and her eternal loyalty to family, making it a name rich in storytelling tradition.
Personality Traits for Fionuala
Individuals named Fionuala often embody grace, creativity, and a strong connection to their roots. They are perceived as thoughtful, introspective, and resilient, with a natural charm and a subtle aura of mystery. This name suggests a personality that values beauty, transformation, and emotional depth.
What does the name Fionuala mean?
Fionuala is a Irish Gaelic name meaning “White shoulder”. Fionuala is an Irish Gaelic name derived from 'Fionnuala,' meaning 'fair' or 'white' (fionn) and 'shoulder' (guala). The name originates in Irish mythology, where Fionnuala was a daughter of Lir transformed into a swan. It symbolizes purity, grace, and transformation.
How do you pronounce Fionuala?
Fionuala is pronounced (IPA: fʲɪˈnuːlə). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Fionuala?
Popular nicknames for Fionuala include: Fi, Nuala, Nuli, Fio, Nula, Fifi, Lula, Fio-Fio, Nuni, Fion.
Who are famous people named Fionuala?
Famous people named Fionuala include: , , , Fionnuala Flanagan, Fionnuala Sherry.
Which celebrities named their baby Fionuala?
Celebrity babies named Fionuala include children of: James Douglas and Sarah Douglas.
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Fionuala is a beautiful Irish Gaelic name meaning “White shoulder”. Fionuala is an Irish Gaelic name derived from 'Fionnuala,' meaning 'fair' or 'white' (fionn) and 'shoulder' (guala). The name originates in Irish mythology, where Fionnuala was a daughter of Lir trans...
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