How to Pronounce Irish Names
When two or three vowels are joined, they create a different sound., If you see these combinations paired with other vowels, pronounce them separately.
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: When two or three vowels are joined
These are called diphthongs.
Here are the combinations: aoi
- Pronounced "ee"
- Example:
Aoife ao
- Pronounced "ay"
- Example:
Caolán eo
- Pronounced "oh"
- Example:
Eoin io
- Pronounced "ih"
- Example:
Siobhán ia
- Pronounced "ee"
- Example:
Niamh eá
- Pronounced "awe"
- Example:
Seán -
Step 2: they create a different sound.
Example:
Eoin contains Eo paired with i.
Eo is pronounced "oh".
If you pronounce them separately, it becomes "Oh-in"
which has been Anglicized into Owen. -
Step 3: If you see these combinations paired with other vowels
-
Step 4: pronounce them separately.
Detailed Guide
These are called diphthongs.
Here are the combinations: aoi
- Pronounced "ee"
- Example:
Aoife ao
- Pronounced "ay"
- Example:
Caolán eo
- Pronounced "oh"
- Example:
Eoin io
- Pronounced "ih"
- Example:
Siobhán ia
- Pronounced "ee"
- Example:
Niamh eá
- Pronounced "awe"
- Example:
Seán
Example:
Eoin contains Eo paired with i.
Eo is pronounced "oh".
If you pronounce them separately, it becomes "Oh-in"
which has been Anglicized into Owen.
About the Author
Martha West
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