Fionnuala Ní Fhlatharta
Irish actress known for her roles in Irish-language television and theater.
IPA Pronunciation
fɪˈnuːlə
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Syllables
Finuala derives from the Irish Gaelic name Fionnuala, which means 'fair-shouldered' or 'white-shouldered.' The name combines 'fionn' meaning 'fair' or 'white' and 'guala' meaning 'shoulder.' It originates from Irish mythology, where Fionnuala was a daughter of Lir, transformed into a swan in the legend of the Children of Lir, symbolizing beauty and endurance.
Cultural Significance of Finuala
Finuala holds a revered place in Irish culture and mythology, primarily because of the legend of the Children of Lir, where Finuala was one of four siblings transformed into swans for 900 years. This story symbolizes resilience, transformation, and the power of love and sacrifice. The name has been cherished in Ireland for centuries and remains a symbol of Irish heritage and storytelling.
Finuala Name Popularity in 2025
While Finuala is a traditional Irish name, it has experienced a modest resurgence in modern times among families seeking unique, culturally rich names. It remains relatively rare outside Ireland, lending it an air of distinction and heritage. Modern parents appreciate its lyrical sound, mythological roots, and the meaningful story behind it, balancing tradition with a contemporary feel.
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International Variations10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Finuala carries the essence of “Fair-shouldered or white-shouldered” from Irish Gaelic tradition. Names beginning with "F" often embody qualities of family devotion, harmony, and compassion.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Finuala holds a revered place in Irish culture and mythology, primarily because of the legend of the Children of Lir, where Finuala was one of four siblings transformed into swans for 900 years. This story symbolizes resilience, transformation, and the power of love and sacrifice. The name has been cherished in Ireland for centuries and remains a symbol of Irish heritage and storytelling.
Fionnuala Sherry
Irish violinist and member of the musical duo Secret Garden, known for blending Celtic and classical music.
Fionnuala McCormack
Irish long-distance runner with multiple European and World Championship appearances.
Fionnuala Flanagan
Actress
Fionnuala Sweeney
Journalist and TV presenter
Fionnuala Ellwood
Actress
Fionnuala Boyd
Painter
Fionnuala Ní Aoláin
Lawyer and human rights expert
Fionnuala Ní Chiosáin
Actress
Fionnuala Ní Fhlatharta
Actress
Fionnuala Ní Dhálaigh
Poet
The Secret of Roan Inish ()
Children of Lir (Animated Film) ()
The Legend of the Children of Lir (Play) ()
Irish Myths and Legends (TV Series) ()
Song of the Swans ()
The Children of Lir (Ballet) ()
Swan Song ()
Mythic Ireland ()
Finuala
🌐Spanish
Finuala
🌐French
Finuala
🌐German
Finuala
🌐Italian
フィヌアラ (Finuara)
🌐Japanese
菲努阿拉 (Fēi nǔ ā lā)
🌐Chinese
فينوالا
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Finuala
The legend of Finuala and her siblings transformed into swans has inspired numerous poems, songs, and artworks in Irish culture, making the name synonymous with enduring love and transformation.
Personality Traits for Finuala
People named Finuala are often perceived as graceful, strong-willed, and creative. They tend to have a deep appreciation for heritage and storytelling, combined with an independent spirit. Finualas are thought to be empathetic and resilient, reflecting the mythological endurance of the name’s origin. Their presence is often calming and inspiring to those around them.
What does the name Finuala mean?
Finuala is a Irish Gaelic name meaning “Fair-shouldered or white-shouldered”. Finuala derives from the Irish Gaelic name Fionnuala, which means 'fair-shouldered' or 'white-shouldered.' The name combines 'fionn' meaning 'fair' or 'white' and 'guala' meaning 'shoulder.' It originates from Irish mythology, where Fionnuala was a daughter of Lir, transformed into a swan in the legend of the Children of Lir, symbolizing beauty and endurance.
How do you pronounce Finuala?
Finuala is pronounced (IPA: fɪˈnuːlə). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Finuala?
Popular nicknames for Finuala include: Finny, Nuala, Fina, Lala, Fin, Nuli, Fiu, Una, Fina-Belle, Nulie.
Who are famous people named Finuala?
Famous people named Finuala include: , , , Fionnuala Flanagan, Fionnuala Sweeney.
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Finuala is a beautiful Irish Gaelic name meaning “Fair-shouldered or white-shouldered”. Finuala derives from the Irish Gaelic name Fionnuala, which means 'fair-shouldered' or 'white-shouldered.' The name combines 'fionn' meaning 'fair' or 'white' and 'guala' meaning 'shoulder.' It origin...
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