In the tapestry of Irish history, surnames offer a fascinating glimpse into the country's social fabric and genealogical roots. Drawing from the study "A Survey of Irish Surnames 1992-97" by scholar Sean J Murphy, this list presents an exploratory journey through the top 100 Irish surnames. These family names, embedded...
The History of the Fitzpatrick Family Name
The Fitzpatrick surname, a distinguished Irish clan name, can be traced back to the midlands of Ireland, primarily to the historic kingdom of Ossory, present-day County Kilkenny and the western part of County Laois. Etymology and Meaning The name Fitzpatrick is derived from the Norman personal name "Patrick" and the...
The History of the Littlejohn Family Name from an Irish Perspective
The surname "Littlejohn" is primarily of English and Scottish origin, with the name denoting "little John" or "the younger John". Its origins can be traced back to medieval England and Scotland, where "Little" was a term often used as a prefix to distinguish the younger of two bearers of the...
The History of the Nangle (de Nógla) Family Name
Origin of the Surname The Nangle surname, or in its Gaelic form, de Nógla, stands out in Irish genealogy not just for its unique phonetics but also for its significant historical implications. With deep medieval roots, this name paints a rich picture of the Anglo-Norman influence in Ireland. Etymology and...
History of the Hennigan (Ó hEanacháin) Family Name
Origin of the Surname The surname Hennigan is of Irish origin, rooted in the ancient Gaelic language. It is derived from the old Irish "Ó hEanacháin," which has deep connections to Irish tribal structures. Etymology and Meaning The name "Ó hEanacháin" can be broken down into two primary components. "Ó"...