Ireland

/ˈaɪə.lənd/ proper noun

Definition

An island in the North Atlantic, west of Great Britain, and also the name of the Republic of Ireland, a country occupying most of that island.

Etymology

From Old Irish *Ériu* (a goddess’s name) plus Germanic *land* “land.” The English form “Ireland” blends a Celtic root with a Germanic word for territory.

Kelly Says

Ireland is famous for its green landscapes, but its biggest export might be stories—myths, music, and literature that have spread worldwide. The island is politically split between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Discussions of Ireland have historically underrepresented women’s roles in politics, literature, and independence movements, often centering male leaders and writers. Irish language and law also encoded traditional gender roles that shaped how Irish women’s work and agency were described or omitted.

Inclusive Usage

When discussing Ireland’s history or culture, explicitly include women’s political, literary, and social contributions rather than defaulting to male figures. Avoid romanticized stereotypes that erase the diversity of Irish women’s experiences.

Empowerment Note

Acknowledge figures such as Constance Markievicz, Hanna Sheehy-Skeffington, and Irish women trade unionists, writers, and activists whose contributions to independence, labor organizing, and cultural life were often minimized in mainstream narratives.

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