Irish Baby Name · Boy

Nechtan

Pronounced: NEKH-tan

Meaning: 'Pure, clean' or 'wet, moist'.

About the name

Origin
Irish
English version
Naughton
Variants
Nechtain
Stronghold region
Leinster

Overview

A water deity of Irish mythology and husband of the goddess Boann. Their well, Tobar Nechtain, was the source of all wisdom; Boann's transgression of its taboo created the River Boyne.

The story behind Nechtan

Boann's transgression of the well's taboo led to its bursting forth as the river — and to her own death in the flood.

Mythology & legend

Husband of Boann; guardian of the Well of Wisdom from which the Boyne sprang.

Did you know?

His sacred well at Carbury is the source of the River Boyne.

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