A Chronicle of Identity: The Top 100 Irish Surnames

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...

Tracing the Geographic Distribution of Irish Surnames: A Guide to Understanding Your Irish Ancestry

Ireland's rich and storied history has given rise to a diverse tapestry of surnames, each with its own unique geographic distribution across the Emerald Isle. This comprehensive guide aims to help you trace the origins and distribution of Irish surnames, providing valuable insights into your ancestry and helping you discover...

Doherty: family name history

Origin of the Surname The surname Doherty has deep roots in Ireland, where it originated from the Gaelic Ó Dochartaigh clan, one of the most influential families in the region of Inishowen in the northern part of County Donegal. Etymology and Meaning The surname Doherty is an anglicized form of...

Brown: family name history

Origin of the Surname The surname Brown is common throughout England, Scotland, and Ireland. The name has multiple origins, one of which lies in the Gaelic tradition, specifically from the root "Donn," meaning "brown" or "dark." Etymology and Meaning The name Brown originated as a nickname for individuals with brown...

O’Connor: family name history

Origin of the Surname The surname O'Connor has its roots in Ireland, originating from the native Gaelic sept of Ó Conchobhair. The name belonged to distinct septs located in different parts of Ireland, including Connacht, Kerry, and Clare. Etymology and Meaning The O'Connor surname is derived from the Gaelic Ó...

McCarthy: family name history

Origin of the Surname The surname McCarthy hails from the rich tapestry of Irish history. It is derived from the Gaelic "Mac Carthaigh," which translates to "son of Carthach." Carthach is an old Irish name meaning "loving." Etymology and Meaning The surname is rooted in the Gaelic Mac Carthaigh. The...

Daly: family name history

Origin of the Surname The name Daly has its roots in the old Gaelic Irish clans, where it was originally spelled as Ó Dálaigh, from the Gaelic word "dálach", which means 'assembly'. This surname was first borne by a group of families who were hereditary poets and scholars to the...

Clarke: family name history

Origin of the Surname The surname Clarke is one of the oldest and most widespread names in Ireland. Its roots go back to ancient times when surnames were first being used in Ireland, around the 10th century. The name has clerical origins, primarily denoting a secretary, clerk, or cleric in...