Aoibheann

/AY-veen/

IrishGirl

Aoibheann is an Irish girl's name pronounced /AY-veen/. A radiant name that translates to 'beautiful sheen' or 'radiant beauty,' often associated with ancient royalty.

Meaning of Aoibheann

A radiant name that translates to 'beautiful sheen' or 'radiant beauty,' often associated with ancient royalty.

Aoibheann is derived from the Old Irish name Aíbhinn, composed of the element 'oíb' meaning beauty, appearance, or radiance. Historically, it was a frequent name among Irish royalty, most notably borne by the mother of St. Enda of Aran and the mother of High King Brian Boru.

Origin
Irish
Pronunciation
/AY-veen/

Cultural background

The name remains a popular choice in Ireland, valued for its traditional Gaelic roots and poetic resonance. It is exclusively used as a feminine given name and is often cited as a classic example of complex Irish orthography.

Variations & nicknames

  • Aoibhín
  • Aoibhin
  • Eavan
  • Aibinn
  • Aoibh
  • Beann

Famous people named Aoibheann

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Aoibheann Ní Shúilleabháin

    Academic, broadcaster, and former Rose of Tralee winner.

    Science and Media · 2000s–present

  • Aoibheann McCaul

    Actress known for her long-standing role on the soap opera Fair City.

    Film and Television · 2010s–present

  • Aoibheann Garrihy

    Prominent Irish actress and wellness entrepreneur.

    Film and Television · 2000s–present

  • Eavan Boland

    Celebrated poet and academic who used the anglicized form of the name.

    Literature · 1960s–2020

  • Aoibheann Sweeney

    American novelist and executive known for 'Among Other Things, I've Taken Up Smoking'.

    Literature · 2000s–present

Frequently asked about Aoibheann

What does Aoibheann mean?
Aoibheann means 'radiant beauty', 'beautiful sheen', or 'pleasant'. It comes from the Irish word 'aoibh', meaning 'smile' or 'beauty'.
How do you pronounce Aoibheann?
It is most commonly pronounced as 'EE-van' or 'AY-veen', depending on the regional Irish dialect.
Is Aoibheann a boy or girl name?
Aoibheann is strictly a girl's name of Irish origin.
How do you spell Aoibheann in English?
The most common anglicized spelling of Aoibheann is Eavan.

Love Aoibheann? Get more names like it

We'll email you 5 fresh Irish names each week — free, no spam.

Compare Aoibheann with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Irish names

See all Irish names