Other variants of the translation:
Death rather than disgrace, e.g.

Motto: "Malo Mori Quam Foedari"



Translation: "Death rather than disgrace"



The Ryan Family is descended from Milesius, King of Spain through the line of Heremon, eighth son of that monarch. The founder of the family was Fiacha Baiceada, son of Cathire More, King of Ireland, A.D.144. The ancient name of the family was Maobreann, signifying "Country Boy". The chiefs of the clan were styled Lords of Idrone and Owney, and their possessions were located in the present County of Carlow and throughout Leinster. This territory of the Ryans was subjected to the intrusion of the Anglo-Normans almost from the landing of the latter in Ireland in 1172.
(www.ryanims.com/Genes/ryanfam.htm - )

or "I would rather die than be dishonoured" - this is rather an explanation, than exact translation.