Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Help
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • Start a New Tree
      • Person Preview
      • Membership
      • Family Trees Support
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Directories & Member Lists
      • Public Member Trees
      • Convict, Criminal, Land & Wills
      • Member Search
      • Card Catalogue
      Loading
      • StoryScout
      Loading
      • Buy a DNA Kit
      • Register a Kit
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Ancestry Blog
      • Gift Memberships
      • Site Map
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Cookies
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Pegeen

      Origin

      Irish, Ireland

      Meaning

      Little one or small.

      Variations

      Negeen, Tegeen, Legend
      The name Pegeen is a feminine given name that is derived from the Irish name "Peadar," which is the Irish form of Peter, meaning "rock" or "stone." The name Pegeen is often considered a diminutive or pet form of Peadar, and it reflects the Irish linguistic tradition of creating affectionate or informal variations of names. The name Pegeen has its roots in Irish culture and is often associated with the rich heritage of the Irish language and its variants.

      In terms of cultural significance, Pegeen is often linked to Irish folklore and literature. One notable reference is found in the works of the Irish playwright John Millington Synge, particularly in his play "The Playboy of the Western World," where a character named Pegeen Mike takes center stage. This association with literature has contributed to the name's recognition within Irish cultural contexts, emphasizing its connection to the themes of identity, tradition, and the complexities of rural Irish life. The character of Pegeen Mike is depicted as a strong and independent woman, which may have influenced the perception of the name as embodying resilience and spiritedness.

      Historically, the use of Pegeen as a given name has been somewhat limited outside of Ireland, though it can occasionally be found in Irish diasporic communities. The name may not have a long or widely recorded history, but its roots in the Irish language indicate that it has been in use for several generations. In contemporary times, Pegeen is not a common name but can occasionally be encountered among those with Irish heritage or in families seeking unique names with cultural significance.

      Notable individuals with the name Pegeen are relatively few, but one prominent figure is Pegeen Fitzgerald, an esteemed American artist known for her contributions to the visual arts. Her work has been exhibited in various galleries and has contributed to the appreciation of contemporary art. Additionally, Pegeen's use in literature and theater, particularly through Synge's work, has allowed it to be recognized in artistic circles, even if individuals bearing the name are not widely celebrated in mainstream culture.

      In summary, Pegeen is an Irish feminine name with roots in the name Peadar, meaning "rock." It carries cultural significance through its association with Irish literature and folklore, particularly in the characterization of Pegeen Mike in Synge's play. Although its historical use is limited and not widely recognized in modern contexts, the name holds a place in the hearts of those connected to Irish heritage. The cultural and literary connections of Pegeen contribute to its uniqueness, making it a name that reflects not only personal identity but also broader themes of resilience and tradition within Irish culture.

      Based on our records...

      Levie

      This is the most common surname associated with Pegeen.

      Donald

      This is the most common name of those married to a Pegeen.

      Lynn

      This is the most common name for a child of a Pegeen.

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1913 is when there were the most people born with the first name Pegeen.

      Explore the origins of another name.