What Are The Origins Of The Name Finn?

Finn is an ancient Irish name; "finn" is an old Gaelic word meaning "white" or "fair." In old Irish mythology, Finn MacCool (or Finn mac Cumaill) was the leader of the Fenians, a band of warriors whose task was to guard the High King. Like the English mythical hero King Arthur, Finn may have had a real existence, possibly as a chieftain who fought against early Norse invaders. There are many tales told about him; some of these have found their way into Arthurian legend, such as the story that he was brought up secretly to protect him from enemies. He is also said to have been trained in combat by warrior women, and to have gained wisdom by accidentally eating the forbidden "salmon of knowledge."

The name Finn is still used, though nowadays it is more often found in the modern form of Fionn, which can also be a girl's name. The girl's name Fiona has the same root, though it is more popular in Scotland than Ireland.