How Do You Spell KILKENNY?

Pronunciation: [kɪlkˈɛni] (IPA)

Kilkenny is a city in Ireland, and its spelling may seem confusing to non-native English speakers. The IPA phonetic transcription for the word is /kɪlˈkɛni/, which may help to explain why it is spelled the way it is. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a stressed syllable with a short "e" sound, and then another syllable with a short "i" sound. The "k" at the beginning of each syllable is pronounced as a hard "k" sound.

KILKENNY Meaning and Definition

1. Kilkenny is a noun that refers to a city in southeast Ireland and the county town of County Kilkenny. It is situated on the banks of the River Nore, with a population of approximately 26,000 people. Kilkenny is known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, making it a popular tourist destination.

   Named after the 6th-century monk St. Canice, Kilkenny has a long and storied history, dating back to medieval times. The city is famed for its well-preserved medieval structures, such as Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral, and numerous ancient buildings that line the narrow streets of its city center.

   In addition to its historical significance, Kilkenny is renowned for its vibrant arts and cultural scene. The city hosts several festivals each year, including the Kilkenny Arts Festival and the Cat Laughs Comedy Festival, attracting both national and international talent.

   Kilkenny is also famous for its traditional Irish sports, including hurling, which is deeply ingrained in the local culture. The city's hurling team, known as the Kilkenny Cats, has achieved great success over the years, winning numerous All-Ireland Championships.

   Overall, Kilkenny is a captivating city that combines a rich history, cultural diversity, and sporting excellence. Its scenic beauty, charming architecture, and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Irish experience.

Etymology of KILKENNY

The word "Kilkenny" is a toponym, meaning it is derived from the name of a place. In this case, it refers to Kilkenny, a city located in County Kilkenny, Ireland. The origin of the name "Kilkenny" comes from the Irish language. It is believed to be a combination of two Gaelic words: "Cill" and "Canainn".

"Cill" means "church" in Gaelic, while "Canainn" is thought to be a personal name, possibly referring to a saint or an individual associated with the area. Therefore, "Kilkenny" essentially translates to "Church of Canainn" or "Canainn's Church" in English. The name likely refers to the presence of an early church or religious settlement in the region.