Etymology and Origin
Eochaidh, also spelled Eochaid, is the modern Gaelic form of an old Irish name derived from ech, meaning "horse". The name thus signifies "horseman" or one who rides a horse, reflecting the importance of equestrianism in early Celtic culture. The Ancient Irish suffix -aidh often marks genitive or masculine forms, though Eochaidh itself is used as a nominative.
Mythological and Legendary Bearers
The name Eochaidh appears frequently in Irish mythology and legend. Among the most notable is Eochaid mac Eirc, a mythical king of the Fir Bolg who ruled in the remote past. Another is Eochaid Ollathair, better known as The Dagda, a powerful chieftain god of the Tuatha Dé Danann. Several legendary High Kings of Ireland bore the name, such as Eochaid Faebar Glas, Eochaid Étgudach, and Eochaid Uaircheas, each associated with different centuries BC in the annals of pseudo-history.
Historical Figures
In historical times, the name was worn by Eochaid son of Eochaid, a 7th-century king of the Uí Cheinnselaig in Leinster, and by Eochaid mac Oengusa, a king of Munster from the Eóganachta dynasty. The name Eochaid was also common among the early Scottish Gaelic kings and nobles, and appears in the genealogies of the Clann Fhearghaill in the Highlands.
Variants and Anglicisation
The name has multiple variants: Eochu, Eocho (earlier forms), and the Modern Irish Eochaidh. It was anglicised as Eochy, and also as Achaius or Haughey, the latter surviving as a surname in modern times. The Old Irish form Eochaid is the root name, of which Eochaidh is the direct modern spelling.
Occurrence and Legacy
Although the name fell out of common use after the Middle Ages, it is still occasionally given in the context of Irish cultural revival. The Gaelic word each ("horse") remains a familiar root in many Irish and Scottish surnames, e.g., Mac Eochaidh (anglicised McCaughey or Haughey).)
- Meaning: "horseman" (from Old Irish ech "horse")
- Origin: Old Irish → Modern Irish/Scottish Gaelic
- Type: Given name (masculine)
- Usage Regions: Ireland, Scotland (historical and in namesakes)