the third of the horses

This placename is discussed in Liam Ó hAisibéil’s doctoral thesis, Logainmneacha Mhagh Loirg agus Uachtar Thíre, Contae Ros Comáin: Anailís ar ainmneacha bhailte fearainn na seandúichí sin (2013, p. 326).

Trian is an element commonly found in townland names and refers to a subdivision (“third part”) of a larger unit. As an element in townland names, it is most prevalent in Connaught.

Graí, a collective noun meaning “horses” is found in a number of placenames throughout the country including Lios na Graí/Lisnagree (“the ring-fort of the horses”) in Co. Kerry (with names of similar origin in Limerick and Waterford) and Cnoc na Graí/Knocknagree “the hill of the horses” in Tipperary. These, and the many other references to each “horse, steed”, capall “horse”, as well as searrach “foal”, láir “mare” and gearrán “gelding, small horse” found in Irish placenames, reflect the importance of the horse in native Irish (Gaelic) culture. (JÓG)