Fiachna

Fiachna is an Old Irish masculine given name derived from fiach, meaning "raven". The raven was a significant bird in Celtic mythology, often associated with prophecy and war. In Irish legend, several characters bear the name, most famously Fiachna mac Báetáin, a 7th-century king of Dál nAraide (also known as Dál Araidi). He appears in tales involving the Ulster Cycle and is sometimes linked with the legendary hero Cú Chulainn.

The name was also borne by other historical and legendary figures. Fiachnae mac Demmáin was a 7th-century king of Dál Fiatach in Ulster, while Fiachnae mac Áedo Róin (died 789) was a later king of Ulaid. Saint Fiachan of Lismore (died 630) was an early Irish monk venerated as a saint. In modern times, the name is notably carried by Fiachna Ó Braonáin (born 1965), an Irish rock musician and member of the band Hothouse Flowers.

Etymology

The name derives from Proto-Celtic *wēkkos, meaning "raven," which also gives rise to Welsh gwern and Breton gwern (blackberry, but related to dark birds). The raven as a totemic animal in early Irish culture is seen in place names and personal names such as Bran (Welsh for "raven").

Related Names

Diminutives of Fiachna include Féchín and Féichín, both of which were also used in Old Irish. The name is related to Fiach (a variant spelled without the suffix) and to Fiacha (pet form), as well as Fiachra (of similar derivation).

• Meaning: "Raven"
• Origin: Old Irish
• Type: First name
• Usage Regions: Ireland (historically and modernly)