Malachy
Malachy is a Christian boy name of Irish Gaelic, assimilated to Hebrew Malachi origin, meaning “Devotee of St Secundinus; my messenger”.
| Meaning | Devotee of St Secundinus; my messenger |
|---|---|
| Gender | Boy |
| Origin | Irish Gaelic, assimilated to Hebrew Malachi |
| Pronunciation | MAL-uh-kee |
| Tradition | Christian |
| Used in | Ireland, United Kingdom, United States |
Meaning and origin of Malachy
Malachy is the anglicised form of the Irish name Maoilsheachlainn (Máel Sechnaill), 'devotee of Secundinus', an early saint. Because it resembled the biblical prophet Malachi, the two names became linked, and Malachy is often explained as 'my messenger'. The best-known bearer is St Malachy, a twelfth-century Archbishop of Armagh and reformer of the Irish church. Later, the 'Prophecy of the Popes' was attributed to him, though historians regard that text as a sixteenth-century forgery.
Is Malachy a Christian name?
Malachy is a traditional Irish Catholic name honouring St Malachy of Armagh.
How popular is Malachy?
Used mainly in Ireland and Northern Ireland and among Irish families abroad.
Gifts with the name Malachy
- Malachy name necklaces & bracelets (Amazon)
- Personalised Malachy baby gifts (Amazon)
- Christian baby gifts & books (Amazon)
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Spellings and variants of Malachy
Names similar to Malachy
More Christian boy names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Malachy mean?
Malachy means 'Devotee of St Secundinus; my messenger'. It is of Irish Gaelic, assimilated to Hebrew Malachi origin.
Is Malachy a Christian name?
Malachy is a traditional Irish Catholic name honouring St Malachy of Armagh.
How do you pronounce Malachy?
Malachy is pronounced MAL-uh-kee.
Is Malachy a boy or girl name?
Malachy is usually a boy name.