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Ní. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
Ní, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
Ní in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
Ní you have here. The definition of the word
Ní will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
Ní, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
Irish
Etymology
Contracted from iníon uí (“daughter of the descendant of”).
Pronunciation
Noun
Ní
- A prefix used with a woman's maiden surname
- Deirdre Ní Cheallaigh – literally "Deirdre, daughter of a descendant of Ceallach" (anglicized form Deirdre Kelly)
Usage notes
This prefix replaces the prefix Ó found in male surnames, and triggers lenition of a following consonant. Ní is used by unmarried women, and by married women who have kept their maiden name. Thus Deirdre Ní Cheallaigh's father and brothers would use the surname Ó Ceallaigh.
Related terms
- Ó (used in male names)
- bean Uí, Uí (used with a woman's married name)
- Nic (used in place of the male Mac prefix)