First Known Use: 1816
Dictionary
Fenian
noun Fe·ni·an \ˈfē-nē-ən\
Definition of FENIAN
1
: a member of a legendary band of warriors defending Ireland in the second and third centuries a.d.
2
: a member of a secret 19th century Irish and Irish-American organization dedicated to the overthrow of British rule in Ireland
— Fenian adjective
— Fe·ni·an·ism \-ə-ˌni-zəm\ noun
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Origin of FENIAN
Fen- (probably in part from Middle Irish Féni freeholders, legendary settlers of Ireland, in part from Irish fiann, genitive singular féinne band of warriors) + -ian
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