How to Pronounce Siobhan

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Last Updated: April 19, 2024

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“Siobhan” is a feminine Irish version of the name “Joan,” and means “God is gracious.” Learn how to pronounce “Siobhan” appropriately to avoid offending individuals with this name.

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   Pronounce the “Sio” portion of the name as “Shi” with a soft “ih” sound.
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   2
   Pronounce the “bhan” portion of the name as “vawn.” “Vawn” should be pronounced to rhyme with “lawn” or “gone.”
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   Combine both syllables of the name to pronounce “Siobhan” as “Shi-vawn.”
   

   Donna Wong, Award-Winning Irish Language Expert

   Siobhan is a lovely Gaelic name that trips up many English speakers. The key is realizing 'Siobhan' is pronounced 'shiv-AWN' — not 'see-o-ban.' Say it as if it began with 'shiv' as in 'shiver.' Let the middle vowels lightly combine into 'awn.' With practice, the lilting shiv-AWN will roll naturally off your tongue, beautifully honoring a proud Irish heritage.
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