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Origin: Gaelic

Meaning: White shoulder

Fenella is a girl’s name of Irish origin that can be traced as an Anglicized variation of the Gaelic name Fionnuala. The name's meaning of “white shoulder” could be linked to the well-known folkloric tale, The Children of Lír_._ In this story, a curse is cast on four children, turning them into bright white swans and condemning them to an eternity on the chilly lakes of Ireland. A happy ending, the little ones are rescued from the curse and become human once again. Although the tale may be rooted in sadness, there are many positive attributes little Fenella can draw from the young swans. Owing to their poise, swans symbolize beauty in many European fairy tales. What better creature to inspire elegance and grace in your little one?