Liam (m)

The Irish form of William, now widespread. It is, of course, the second syllable and more of William, which was once translated as Uilliam, a name also used for the fox, corresponding to French Reynard. The form Bhulliadh (pronounced Wully) was sometimes used for King William III (1650-1702). Liam was originally a pet form, but it is now established as the Irish translation. Liam na Lasoige is an Irish name for the Will o' the Wisp or igniis fatuus.

Malvina (f)

Perhaps a derivation of Gaelic maol, 'servant' or 'handmaid'. The name is an invention of James Macpherson. In his Ossianic poems (1765) Malvina is the lover of Oscar, grandson of Finn MacColl. It has been used as a Christian name.

Dudley (m)

Originally, this was a surname coming from Dudley in Worcestershire, England. It became a first name in the nineteenth century, and was used in Ireland to anglicise Duald, Dubhdaleithe ('black man of the two sides'), and Dubhdara. It continues in use.