Feidlimid

Feidlimid is an Old Irish masculine given name, traditionally said to mean "ever good", though it might be related to Old Irish feidil meaning "enduring, constant". It is the older form of the modern Irish names Feidhlim, Felim, Phelim, among others. Variants from Irish mythology include Fedelmid and Fedlimid.

Historical and Legendary Bearers

In Irish history, this name was borne by three early kings of Munster: Feidlimid mac Óengusa (d. c. 500), Feidlimid mac Tigernaig (d. 588), and Feidlimid mac Coirpri Chruimm (d. 596). The most famous ruler was Feidlimid mac Cremthanin (d. 846), a king of Munster known for his military campaigns and patronage of the church.

In Irish mythology, Feidlimid mac Daill (or Fedlimid) appears as the father of Deirdre, the tragic heroine of the Ulster Cycle. According to legend, the druid Cathbad prophesied that Deirdre would bring sorrow, yet King Conchobar demanded she be raised as his bride—leading to a tale of love, betrayal, and death.

Saint Felim

From Old Irish Feidlimid comes the name Felim, associated with a 6th-century saint and hermit—Saint Felim (also anglicized as Phelim). He is venerated in Irish Christianity, with his feast day celebrated in local tradition.

• Meaning: "ever good" or "enduring, constant"
• Origin: Old Irish
• Type: Masculine given name
• Usage regions: Ireland (historical and modern)