Fenella

/fuh-NEL-uh/

Scottish GaelicGirl

Fenella is a Scottish Gaelic girl's name pronounced /fuh-NEL-uh/. An Anglicized form of Fionnuala, meaning one with fair or white shoulders.

Meaning of Fenella

An Anglicized form of Fionnuala, meaning one with fair or white shoulders.

Fenella is the Scottish Gaelic Anglicization of the Old Irish name Fionnuala. It is derived from the Gaelic elements 'fionn', meaning white or fair, and 'guala', meaning shoulder, literally translating to 'white-shouldered'.

Origin
Scottish Gaelic
Pronunciation
/fuh-NEL-uh/

Cultural background

While historically significant in Scotland and the Isle of Man, the name is now considered a classic, relatively uncommon choice often associated with Celtic heritage. It gained literary prominence through Sir Walter Scott's 1823 novel 'Peveril of the Peak'.

Variations & nicknames

  • Fionnuala
  • Finola
  • Fiona
  • Fenella
  • Finnola
  • Fen

Famous people named Fenella

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

  • Fenella Fielding

    English actress known for her distinct voice and roles in the 'Carry On' films.

    Film · 1950s–2018

  • Fenella Woolgar

    British stage and screen actress known for 'Bright Young Things' and 'Call the Midwife'.

    Film · 1990s–present

  • Fenella Kernebone

    Australian radio and television presenter and curator.

    Media · 2000s–present

  • Fenella, Lady of the Isle of Man

    A character in Sir Walter Scott's novel 'Peveril of the Peak'.

    Literature · 1823 (Publication)

Frequently asked about Fenella

What does Fenella mean?
Fenella means 'white-shouldered' or 'fair-shouldered', originating from the Gaelic words 'fionn' (fair) and 'guala' (shoulder).
How do you pronounce Fenella?
Fenella is pronounced fuh-NEL-uh, with the emphasis on the middle syllable.
Is Fenella a boy or girl name?
Fenella is traditionally a girl's name of Scottish and Irish origin.
Is Fenella a common name?
Fenella is considered a rare and distinctive name, maintaining a steady but low level of usage in Scotland and the United Kingdom.

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