Pegeen

Pegeen is an Irish diminutive of the name Margaret. Margaret itself is derived from the Greek word 'margarites,' meaning 'pearl.' The name Margaret has a long and rich history in Europe, particularly due to several saints and queens bearing the name. In Ireland, various diminutives and anglicized forms emerged, with Pegeen being one of the more charming and distinctly Irish versions.

The use of 'een' as a diminutive suffix is common in Irish, adding a sense of endearment or smallness. While Margaret has been popular for centuries, Pegeen offers a more whimsical and less formal alternative, often evoking images of traditional Irish culture and folklore. It gained some recognition in literature, particularly through John Millington Synge's play "The Playboy of the Western World," where a character named Pegeen Mike appears.