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In Dal-Riada and Irish mythology, Ériu (pronounced
"Ey-riu"), or Éri, was the personification of Ireland and mother of Bres by Prince Elatha of the Fomorians. Her husband was Mac Gréine. She was one of the Tuatha Dé Danann. Éire, the modern Irish name for Ireland, comes from her name, as ultimately does the English "Ireland".
Along with her sisters (daughters of Ernmas by the Dagda or Delbáeth), Fodla and Banba, she was part of an important trio of goddesses. She was a Goddess of Sovereignty and the maiden/spiritual aspect of the triplicity Goddesses with her two sisters. She was the third of the three to be approached and challenged by the Milesians. She fought long and fiercely for Ireland, winning the battle but losing Ireland. In honour of her fight, the Milesians named Ireland for her.
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