Fearghas

Fearghas is a masculine given name of Gaelic origin, used in Ireland and Scotland. It is closely related to the name Fergus and is found in older Gaelic sources in spellings such as Fearghas or Fearghus, among others. In contemporary usage, Fergus is the more common Anglicized form.

Etymology and meaning

The name is commonly interpreted as a combination of Gaelic elements meaning “man” (fear) and “vigour” or “strength” (gas or ghàs). Combined, Fearghas is typically understood to mean “man of vigor” or “strong man.” Etymology in early Gaelic sources can vary in spelling and form, but the association with strength and manliness is widely recognized in Gaelic onomastics.

Usage and variants

Historically, Fearghas appears in medieval Irish and Scottish Gaelic genealogies, legends, and poetry. In modern times, it remains uncommon as a standalone given name, with Fergus serving as the more prevalent Anglicized form. Spelling variants include Fearghas, Fearghus, and Feargus; the name is most likely to be found in contexts with strong Gaelic heritage or in scholarly references to onomastics and literature.

Pronunciation

Pronunciation varies by dialect. In Gaelic contexts, it is often rendered with a pronounced first syllable and a rolled or stressed second syllable, while Anglicized renditions commonly approximate it as “Fergus” or “FAIR-gus.”

Cultural notes

Fearghas appears in Gaelic literature and historical documents, reflecting its place in the broader family of Gaelic names tied to valor and strength. It is sometimes encountered in fiction and contemporary works exploring Gaelic history and culture.