Fionntán, Fintan

The name is composed of the elements fionn meaning “white; fair” and tine meaning “fire.” It has been anglicized as Fintan. In Irish legend, Fionntan Mac Bochra was a great seer and druid advisor who supposedly arrived in Ireland, along with Noah’s granddaughter, Cessair. His wives and daughters died during God’s cursed flood but he survived by transforming himself into a salmon and taking refuge in an undersea cave. He later transformed himself into an eagle, then into a hawk and then back into his true form. Supposedly, he lived 5500 years, until the arrival of Christianity into Ireland, where he was baptized and died immediately after. It has been borne by several Irish saints, and its designated name day is July 13. The name might be especially appealing to parents who are considering Connor or Aidan, but find them too popular. Finn or Finty are possible nickname options.