Irish girl name

Étaín Name Meaning, Origin & Pronunciation

Étaín means shining one, uncertain. From Old Irish Étaín, of uncertain meaning, possibly shining or jealousy

Étaín is the heroine of one of the finest tales in Irish mythology, The Wooing of Étaín. She is a woman of astonishing beauty who is reborn after being turned into a pool of water, a worm and a butterfly, and who is wooed across worlds by the god Midir. The meaning of the name is unknown, though shining has been suggested. It is rare today, but it has an enduring literary appeal, and the form Aideen is found as a related modern name. Parents who love mythology often find it irresistible.

Variants of Étaín

EtainEdainAideenEtaoin

In Irish myth

Étaín was a beautiful woman of the Tuatha Dé Danann, pursued by the god Midir and reborn through several forms in one of Ireland's best-loved tales.

Read the full story on Gods of Ireland →

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Étaín mean?

Étaín means "shining one, uncertain". From Old Irish Étaín, of uncertain meaning, possibly shining or jealousy.

How do you pronounce Étaín?

Étaín is pronounced AY-deen.

What is the origin of Étaín?

Étaín is of Irish origin. From Old Irish Étaín, of uncertain meaning, possibly shining or jealousy.