ciaráin

Ciaráin is a given name of Irish origin. It is the diminutive form of the Old Irish name Ciarán, which derives from the word "ciar," meaning "dark" or "black." Therefore, Ciaráin can be interpreted as "little dark one" or "little black one." The name is predominantly masculine and is relatively common in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora.

Saint Ciarán is a significant figure in Irish history and hagiography. Several saints bore this name, the most prominent being Saint Ciarán of Clonmacnoise. He was one of the twelve apostles of Ireland and founded the famous monastery of Clonmacnoise in the 6th century. His monastic foundation became a major center of learning and religious life in early medieval Ireland. Due to his importance, the name Ciarán, and by extension Ciaráin, has a strong religious and historical association.

The spelling Ciaráin is a modern anglicized version, often incorporating the fada (acute accent) over the 'a' to indicate a long vowel sound, though this is not always consistently applied in everyday use. The pronunciation typically sounds similar to "KEER-awn." The name remains popular in contemporary Ireland, often chosen to honor family heritage or in recognition of its historical and religious significance.