HeyRuaHow to say “John” in Irish
- Irish:
- Seán
- English:
- John
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine
- Pronunciation:
- “shawn” /ʃaːnˠ/
Various forms
- Genitive singular:
- Seáin (e.g. teach Sheáin, Seán's house)
What does “Seán” mean?
- John
- A common Irish male first name, the Irish equivalent of John.Also: Sean, shaun, shawn, male name.
Other Irish words for John: Eoin (John)
“Seán” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using Seán, the Irish word for John.
Seán is ainm do m'athair.
My father's name is Seán.
Tá Seán ag obair sa siopa inniu.
Seán is working in the shop today.
A Sheáin, an bhfuil tú réidh?
Seán, are you ready?
Chonaic mé carr Sheáin ar an mbóthar.
I saw Seán's car on the road.
Thug mé an leabhar do Sheán inné.
I gave the book to Seán yesterday.
Is cara maith liom é Seán.
Seán is a good friend of mine.
Tá deartháir Sheáin ina chónaí i nGaillimh.
Seán's brother lives in Galway.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
John in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for John?
The Irish for John is Seán (pronounced “shawn”). It’s a masculine noun.
How do you pronounce Seán in Irish?
Seán is said like “shawn” (IPA /ʃaːnˠ/).
Does Seán have a plural?
No. Seán is a name, so it is used in the singular only.
What is the difference between Seán and Eoin?
Both correspond to English John: Eoin is the older native form, used for Saint John the Evangelist and the Baptist, while Seán came through Norman French Jehan.
Why does Seán sometimes appear as Sheáin?
When you address someone you say 'A Sheáin', and in the genitive the name becomes Sheáin, as in 'mac Sheáin' (Seán's son).
