FENIAN


Meaning of FENIAN in English

I. ˈfēnēən, -nyən noun

( -s )

Usage: usually capitalized

Etymology: modification (influenced by Feni ancient inhabitants of Ireland) of Irish Gaelic fēinne (plural of fiann band of Fenians) + English -ian

1. : one of a legendary band of warriors who defended Ireland in the 2d and 3d centuries A.D.

the cycle of romance describing the battles, hunts, and rivalries of the Fenians

2. : a member of a secret organization consisting mainly of Irishmen and men of Irish birth or ancestry and having for its aim the overthrow of British rule in Ireland

II. adjective

Usage: usually capitalized

: of, relating to, or characteristic of the Fenians

Fenian conspirators

Webster's New International English Dictionary.      Новый международный словарь английского языка Webster.