Map Reference: Cornaigmore 62
Name Type: agricultural
Meaning: This is an enigmatic name. ScG fearann 'land, estate' occurs eight times as a generic on Tiree, although it does not occur in Carloway, and it is not common elsewhere (SP). It is derived from the EG ferand (MacBain), although ScG Fearann an Rìghe 'the land of the 'King'' (an ironic nickname) in Moss was coined as late as the nineteenth century.
ScG crìonan 'matter ejected by cows when in heat and before calving' (Dwelly) is unpersuasive. The Early Gaelic male personal name Crínán was loaned into Old Norse as Krínán. The only similar place-name in Scotland is a Cnoc Chrionain 'the signification of which is obscure' in Sutherland (OS1/33/30/47). However, it is best to leave this element open at the moment.
Other Forms: Pairc a’ Chrìonain - Angus MacLean, Scarinish
Earann a’ Chrìonain - AMcL
Fearann a’ Chrìonain - HC.
Related Places:
Information: Part of Lag nan Cruach - AMcL.
Behind Skinners' church - HC.
Local Form:
Languages : GaelicInformants: Alec MacLean, Cornaigbeg, 2/1994
Informant 2: Hugh Campbell, Garraphail, 11/1995
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