How to pronounce Cillian Murphy’s name – people keep saying Peaky Blinders star’s name wrong

Cork’s very own Cillian Murphy has been a luminous presence on the silver screen for years, with his mesmerizing performances earning him a place among Hollywood’s elite. His role as Thomas Shelby in the critically acclaimed series Peaky Blinders has propelled him to new heights of global fame. With the recent release of Oppenheimer, Murphy’s renown has only continued to rise. However, one aspect of his stardom that continues to baffle many fans is the pronunciation of his traditional Irish name.

Much like other celebrities with Irish names, such as Saoirse Ronan, Cillian Murphy often finds his name mispronounced. For those unfamiliar with the nuances of Irish Gaelic, it’s easy to see why this happens. But fear not, for we are here to set the record straight.

How to Pronounce the Name Cillian?

A common misconception is that “Cillian” should be pronounced as “Sillian.” This, however, is incorrect. The proper pronunciation is “Killian” (“Kill-ee-an”). The “C” in Cillian is soft, akin to a “K” sound, leading to the elegant yet strong “Killian.”

The Origins and Meaning of Cillian

The name Cillian is steeped in Irish heritage and is believed to have saintly origins. It combines “cill,” which means church or churchyard in Irish, with “ian,” a diminutive suffix indicating youth or smallness. Some name experts suggest that Cillian means “bright-headed,” though it could also be interpreted as “monastery” or “church.”

Popularity in Ireland

Cillian is not only a name rich in history but also one that has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. According to Ireland’s Central Statistics Office, Cillian was the ninth most popular name given to baby boys born in Ireland in 2023. In that year alone, 275 boys were named Cillian. Remarkably, it has maintained its position as the ninth most popular boys’ name since 2021.

A Name to Remember

As Cillian Murphy continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his exceptional talent, it’s only fitting that we honor him by pronouncing his name correctly. So, the next time you discuss the enigmatic star of Peaky Blinders or Oppenheimer, remember to say “Killian” with confidence. Not only will you be showing respect to a beloved actor, but you’ll also be embracing a piece of rich Irish culture.