a market-town of Ireland, on the River Ilnan, in the county and 45 miles S.W. of Cork, 210 S.W. of Dublin. It is for the most part well built of stone; and contains, besides the parish church, places of worship for Roman Catholics and Wesleyans, two national schools, a market-house, court-house, jail, custom-house, dispensary, and work-house. Near the town are several flour-mills and a brewery. The weaving of coarse frieze is also carried on by many of the inhabitants. Several fairs are held, where these coarse stuffs are disposed of. The river is navigable for boats up to Skibbereen; but large vessels must lie at Aldecourt, its port, 2 miles farther down. Corn, flour, and provisions are exported. Skibbereen suffered very much during the famine of 1846-7; and it contains a large proportion of paupers. Pop. 6440.