Bébhionn

Bébinn is an early Irish name applied to many related and unrelated figures in Irish mythology. In some sources, Bébhinn is a goddess associated with birth and the river-goddess’s sister, Boann. Bébinn is also described as an underworld goddess in both Irish and Welsh mythology, inhabiting the Irish underworld Mag Mell and the Welsh Annwn. However, it is unknown, which is the original source. The name Bébinn seems to be a combination between medieval forms of the Irish Gaelic word “bean” (woman), and the adjective “binn” (melodious), literally translating to “melodious woman.” This name is also linked to the Latin “vīvus” (alive), imperial Latin “vīvĭanus” which means “one who has the life.” However may also be a derivative of the female Roman cognomen Vibianus, probably of Etruscan origin but unknown meaning.