100 List of Common Irish Surnames/Last Names with Meanings

Irish surnames! They are not just a bunch of letters strung together but are rich lineage woven with stories, history, and meanings. From the rolling hills of the Emerald Isle to the bustling streets of Dublin, these names have traveled far and wide, carrying tales of ancient clans, medieval warriors, and enduring family legacies. In this guide, you can explore the 100 most popular Irish surnames, know the meanings of traditional Irish last names, and uncover some unique and cool Irish surnames. So, grab a cup of tea, sit back, and we will take you on this fascinating journey through the world of Irish family surnames.

A Curation Of 100 Irish Family Names & Their Significance:

Learn about the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of Ireland’s most cherished surnames.

1. Kelly:

• Meaning: Bright-headed
• Origin: Derived from the Gaelic ‘Ó Ceallaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Widely spread across Ireland
• Cultural Significance: Reflects the vibrant history of the Kelly clan
• Famous Personality: Grace Kelly, renowned actress and Princess of Monaco

2. O’Sullivan:

• Meaning: Dark-eyed
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Súileabháin’
• Geographical Footprint: Predominantly found in Southwest Ireland
• Cultural Significance: One of the oldest Irish surnames, with regal connotations
• Famous Personality: Maureen O’Sullivan, classic Hollywood actress

3. Byrne:

• Meaning: Raven
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Broin’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in East Ireland, especially in Leinster
• Cultural Significance: Associated with wisdom and knowledge
• Famous Personality: Gabriel Byrne, internationally acclaimed actor

4. O’Reilly:

• Meaning: Descendent of Raghaillach
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Raghallaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Widespread, especially in Cavan
• Cultural Significance: Linked to nobility and power
• Famous Personality: Bill O’Reilly, American journalist and author

5. Doyle:

• Meaning: Dark stranger
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Dubhghaill’
• Geographical Footprint: Strong presence in Southeast Ireland
• Cultural Significance: Signifies mystery and adaptation
• Famous Personality: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, author of Sherlock Holmes

6. McCarthy:

• Meaning: Loving person
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Mac Cárthaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Predominant in County Cork
• Cultural Significance: Reflects kindness and community spirit
• Famous Personality: Cormac McCarthy, acclaimed novelist

7. Murphy:

• Meaning: Sea warrior
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Murchadha’
• Geographical Footprint: Most common surname in Ireland
• Cultural Significance: Embodies resilience and courage
• Famous Personality: Cillian Murphy, celebrated actor

8. Walsh:

• Meaning: Welshman
• Origin: Anglo-Norman, ‘Breathnach’ in Gaelic
• Geographical Footprint: Particularly numerous in Mayo and Kilkenny
• Cultural Significance: Highlights the historical ties with Wales
• Famous Personality: Maria Walsh, former Rose of Tralee and MEP

9. Ryan:

• Meaning: Little king
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Riain’
• Geographical Footprint: Abundant in Counties Tipperary and Limerick
• Cultural Significance: Implies nobility and leadership
• Famous Personality: Meg Ryan, famous American actress

10. O’Neill:

• Meaning: Descendant of Niall
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Néill’
• Geographical Footprint: Stronghold in Northern Ireland
• Cultural Significance: Connected to ancient kings and leaders
• Famous Personality: Liam Neeson, internationally renowned actor

11. Kennedy:

• Meaning: Helmeted chief
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Cinnéide’
• Geographical Footprint: Predominantly found in Wexford and Waterford
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes protection and authority
• Famous Personality: John F. Kennedy, 35th President of the United States

12. O’Connor:

• Meaning: Patron of warriors
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Conchobhair’
• Geographical Footprint: Widespread, especially in Kerry and Galway
• Cultural Significance: Indicates warrior lineage and valor
• Famous Personality: Sinéad O’Connor, internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter

13. Duffy:

• Meaning: Dark
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Dufaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in Monaghan
• Cultural Significance: Suggests depth and mystery
• Famous Personality: Aimee Duffy, Welsh singer-songwriter known as Duffy

14. Gallagher:

• Meaning: Foreign helper
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Gallchobhair’
• Geographical Footprint: Prevalent in Donegal
• Cultural Significance: Embodies assistance and kinship
• Famous Personality: Liam Gallagher, lead singer of Oasis

15. Healy:

• Meaning: Ingenious, scientific
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó hÉilidhe’
• Geographical Footprint: Concentrated in counties Sligo and Cork
• Cultural Significance: Represents intellect and innovation
• Famous Personality: Tim Healy, Irish actor

16. Lynch:

• Meaning: Mariner
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Loinsigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Predominantly found in Galway
• Cultural Significance: Associated with seafaring and exploration
• Famous Personality: Evanna Lynch, actress known for her role in Harry Potter films

17. Hughes:

• Meaning: Fire
• Origin: Derived from the Gaelic ‘Aodh’, an old Irish god
• Geographical Footprint: Widespread, particularly in Ulster
• Cultural Significance: Signifies passion and spirit
• Famous Personality: Ted Hughes, former British Poet Laureate

18. O’Keeffe:

• Meaning: Noble or gentle
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Caoimh’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in County Cork
• Cultural Significance: Reflects nobility and gentleness
• Famous Personality: Georgia O’Keeffe, influential American artist

19. Whelan:

• Meaning: Joyful or pleasant
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Faoláin’
• Geographical Footprint: Concentrated in the southeast of Ireland
• Cultural Significance: Implies a cheerful and pleasant nature
• Famous Personality: Glen Whelan, professional footballer

20. O’Donnell:

• Meaning: World ruler
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Dónaill’
• Geographical Footprint: Prominent in County Donegal
• Cultural Significance: Denotes leadership and authority
• Famous Personality: Daniel O’Donnell, Irish singer

21. Brennan:

• Meaning: Sorrow or sadness
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Braonáin’
• Geographical Footprint: Strong presence in Kilkenny and Laois
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes depth of character and empathy
• Famous Personality: Maeve Brennan, renowned writer and journalist

22. Boyle:

• Meaning: Vain pledge
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Baoill’
• Geographical Footprint: Most common in Donegal
• Cultural Significance: Suggests historic ties to nobility and promises
• Famous Personality: Susan Boyle, Scottish singer who rose to fame on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’

23. Donnelly:

• Meaning: Dark bravery
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Donnghaile’
• Geographical Footprint: Found primarily in Ulster
• Cultural Significance: Indicates courage and fortitude
• Famous Personality: Declan Donnelly, one half of the TV presenting duo Ant & Dec

24. Moore:

• Meaning: Noble or majestic
• Origin: Anglo-Norman origins, ‘Ó Mórdha’ in Gaelic
• Geographical Footprint: Common throughout Ireland, especially in Mayo
• Cultural Significance: Signifies nobility and dignity
• Famous Personality: Sir Roger Moore, actor known for playing James Bond

25. Murray:

• Meaning: Seafarer or lord of the sea
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Muirí’
• Geographical Footprint: Widespread, particularly in Donegal
• Cultural Significance: Associated with maritime prowess
• Famous Personality: Andy Murray, professional tennis player

26. Quinn:

• Meaning: Wise or intelligent
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Cuinn’
• Geographical Footprint: Prevalent in Tyrone and Clare
• Cultural Significance: Embodies wisdom and intelligence
• Famous Personality: Aidan Quinn, Irish-American actor

27. McMahon:

• Meaning: Son of the bear
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Mac Mathúna’
• Geographical Footprint: Strongly associated with Clare and Monaghan
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes strength and ferocity
• Famous Personality: Vince McMahon, American professional wrestling promoter

28. Maguire:

• Meaning: Son of the beige one
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Mag Uidhir’
• Geographical Footprint: Originates from Fermanagh
• Cultural Significance: Historical significance as leaders and nobles
• Famous Personality: John Maguire, MMA fighter

29. Doherty:

• Meaning: Destroyer in battle
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Dochartaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in Derry
• Cultural Significance: Implies bravery and prowess in conflict
• Famous Personality: Pete Doherty, musician and songwriter

30. Flynn:

• Meaning: Bright red
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Floinn’
• Geographical Footprint: Especially prevalent in Cork and Kerry
• Cultural Significance: Indicates vibrancy and liveliness
• Famous Personality: Errol Flynn, iconic Hollywood actor

31. Kavanagh:

• Meaning: Born handsome
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Caomhánaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in Counties Carlow and Wexford
• Cultural Significance: Suggests attractiveness and nobility
• Famous Personality: Thomas Kavanagh, recipient of the Victoria Cross

32. Brady:

• Meaning: Spirited or broad
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Brádaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Predominant in Cavan and surrounding areas
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes vigor and expansiveness
• Famous Personality: Tom Brady, renowned American football quarterback

33. Collins:

• Meaning: Holly
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Coileáin’
• Geographical Footprint: Especially common in Cork and Limerick
• Cultural Significance: Represents protection and foresight
• Famous Personality: Michael Collins, a key figure in Irish independence

34. Moloney:

• Meaning: Noble or goodly host
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Maoldhomhnaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Most prevalent in County Clare
• Cultural Significance: Denotes nobility and generosity
• Famous Personality: Dermot Moloney, Irish hurler

35. Daly:

• Meaning: Assembly or gathering
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Dálaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Found widely in West and Northwest Ireland
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes leadership and community
• Famous Personality: Tyne Daly, American actress

36. Sweeney:

• Meaning: Little hero
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Mac Suibhne’
• Geographical Footprint: Strong presence in Donegal
• Cultural Significance: Embodies bravery and heroism
• Famous Personality: Julia Sweeney, American actress and comedian

37. Fitzgerald:

• Meaning: Son of Gerald
• Origin: Norman origins, ‘Mac Gearailt’ in Gaelic
• Geographical Footprint: Predominantly in Munster
• Cultural Significance: Signifies nobility and Norman heritage
• Famous Personality: John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 35th President of the USA

38. Farrell:

• Meaning: Man of valor
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Fearghail’
• Geographical Footprint: Especially common in Longford
• Cultural Significance: Indicates bravery and courage
• Famous Personality: Colin Farrell, Irish actor

39. Sheehan:

• Meaning: Peaceful
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Síodhacháin’
• Geographical Footprint: Mostly found in County Cork
• Cultural Significance: Represents tranquility and diplomacy
• Famous Personality: Michael F. Sheehan, former U.S. counter-terrorism official

40. McGrath:

• Meaning: Son of grace
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Mac Craith’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in Clare and Tipperary
• Cultural Significance: Suggests benevolence and graciousness
• Famous Personality: McGrath McGrane, Irish medieval archbishop

41. Kenny:

• Meaning: Born of fire
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Cionnaith’
• Geographical Footprint: Widespread, particularly in Galway
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes passion and vitality
• Famous Personality: Enda Kenny, former Taoiseach of Ireland

42. Sheridan:

• Meaning: Seeker
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Sirideáin’
• Geographical Footprint: Most common in Cavan and Monaghan
• Cultural Significance: Indicates curiosity and ambition
• Famous Personality: Jim Sheridan, Irish film director

43. Flanagan:

• Meaning: Ruddy or red
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Flannagáin’
• Geographical Footprint: Abundant in Roscommon and Fermanagh
• Cultural Significance: Signifies vibrancy and energy
• Famous Personality: Tommy Flanagan, Scottish actor

44. Tierney:

• Meaning: Lord or master
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Tighearnaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Prevalent in Galway and Clare
• Cultural Significance: Connotes leadership and authority
• Famous Personality: Maura Tierney, American actress

45. McLaughlin:

• Meaning: Son of Lochlainn
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Mac Lochlainn’
• Geographical Footprint: Strongly linked to Donegal
• Cultural Significance: Implies Viking origins and maritime connections
• Famous Personality: Barry McLaughlin, Irish footballer

46. Griffin:

• Meaning: Fierce or dangerous
• Origin: Derived from the Gaelic ‘Ó Gríobhtha’
• Geographical Footprint: Predominantly found in Kerry and Clare
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes fierceness and resilience
• Famous Personality: Kathy Griffin, American comedian and actress

47. McGuire:

• Meaning: Son of the beige one
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Mag Uidhir’
• Geographical Footprint: Strong presence in Fermanagh
• Cultural Significance: Denotes noble heritage
• Famous Personality: Eddie McGuire, Australian television presenter

48. O’Dowd:

• Meaning: Dark and swarthy
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Dubhda’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in Mayo and Sligo
• Cultural Significance: Reflects the physical characteristics of the original family
• Famous Personality: Chris O’Dowd, Irish actor and comedian

49. Burke:

• Meaning: From the fort
• Origin: Anglo-Norman, ‘de Burgo’ in Gaelic
• Geographical Footprint: Widespread, especially in Galway and Mayo
• Cultural Significance: Associated with strength and fortification
• Famous Personality: James Burke, Irish scientist and author

50. Hogan:

• Meaning: Youthful
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó hÓgáin’
• Geographical Footprint: Prominent in Counties Tipperary and Limerick
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes vitality and youth
• Famous Personality: Hulk Hogan, American professional wrestler

51. Keane:

• Meaning: Fighter or warrior
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Catháin’
• Geographical Footprint: Concentrated in Clare and Waterford
• Cultural Significance: Represents bravery and strength
• Famous Personality: Roy Keane, Irish football manager and former player

52. Morrison:

• Meaning: Son of Morris
• Origin: Norman origin
• Geographical Footprint: Found throughout Ireland, especially in the North
• Cultural Significance: Denotes foreign influence in Irish genealogy
• Famous Personality: Van Morrison, Northern Irish singer-songwriter

53. Barrett:

• Meaning: Bear-like strength or bravery
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Baireid’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in Mayo and Cork
• Cultural Significance: Implies strength and courage
• Famous Personality: Elizabeth Barrett Browning, prominent English poet

54. Dillon:

• Meaning: Like a lion
• Origin: Norman origin, ‘Dyllon’ in Gaelic
• Geographical Footprint: Particularly numerous in Westmeath and Roscommon
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes bravery and nobility
• Famous Personality: Matt Dillon, American actor

55. Mahoney:

• Meaning: Bear calf
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Mathúna’
• Geographical Footprint: Prevalent in Cork
• Cultural Significance: Suggests strength and endurance
• Famous Personality: John Mahoney, English-American actor

56. Boylan:

• Meaning: White cow
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Baoighealláin’
• Geographical Footprint: Mainly in Counties Cavan and Monaghan
• Cultural Significance: Tied to ancient pastoral livelihoods
• Famous Personality: Brendan Boylan, former Irish politician

57. Cunningham:

• Meaning: Village of the milk pail
• Origin: Scottish origins, but an established surname in Ulster
• Geographical Footprint: Particularly found in Northern Ireland
• Cultural Significance: Signifies domesticity and community
• Famous Personality: Liam Cunningham, Irish actor

58. Doherty:

• Meaning: Destroyer in battle
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Dochartaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Most common in Donegal
• Cultural Significance: Reflects bravery and combat prowess
• Famous Personality: Shannen Doherty, American actress

59. Joyce:

• Meaning: Little lord
• Origin: Breton origin, adopted in Ireland
• Geographical Footprint: Strongly associated with Galway and the West
• Cultural Significance: Represents nobility and leadership
• Famous Personality: James Joyce, renowned Irish writer

60. Madden:

• Meaning: Little dog
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Madáin’
• Geographical Footprint: Prevalent in Galway
• Cultural Significance: Denotes loyalty and guardianship
• Famous Personality: Benji Madden, American musician

61. Fitzpatrick:

• Meaning: Son of the nobleman or soldier
• Origin: Norman origin, ‘Mac Giolla Phádraig’ in Gaelic
• Geographical Footprint: Prominent in Kilkenny and Laois
• Cultural Significance: Represents nobility and martial prowess
• Famous Personality: Patrick Fitzgerald, American attorney

62. Donovan:

• Meaning: Dark brown
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Donnabháin’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in County Cork
• Cultural Significance: Suggests earthiness and resilience
• Famous Personality: Donovan, Scottish singer, songwriter, and guitarist

63. Cahill:

• Meaning: Battle ruler
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Cathail’
• Geographical Footprint: Frequently found in Kerry and Clare
• Cultural Significance: Implies leadership and bravery in conflict
• Famous Personality: Eddie Cahill, American actor

64. Foley:

• Meaning: Plunderer
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Foghlú’
• Geographical Footprint: Mostly in Kerry and Waterford
• Cultural Significance: Indicates resourcefulness and survival skills
• Famous Personality: Dave Foley, Canadian actor, and comedian

65. Clarke:

• Meaning: Clerk or cleric
• Origin: Anglo-Norman origin
• Geographical Footprint: Widespread across Ireland
• Cultural Significance: Denotes literacy and religious association
• Famous Personality: Emilia Clarke, English actress

66. Cronin:

• Meaning: Little dark one
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Cróinín’
• Geographical Footprint: Concentrated in County Cork
• Cultural Significance: Suggests a diminutive stature and dark appearance
• Famous Personality: Ciarán Cronin, Irish philosopher

67. Fitzgerald:

• Meaning: Son of Gerald
• Origin: Norman origins, ‘Mac Gearailt’ in Gaelic
• Geographical Footprint: Predominantly in Munster
• Cultural Significance: Signifies nobility and Norman heritage
• Famous Personality: Ella Fitzgerald, American jazz singer

68. Buckley:

• Meaning: Male deer or buck
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Buachalla’
• Geographical Footprint: Especially in Counties Cork and Kerry
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes agility and strength
• Famous Personality: Jeff Buckley, American singer-songwriter

69. Casey:

• Meaning: Vigilant in war
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Cathasaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Strong presence in Cork and Limerick
• Cultural Significance: Indicates a watchful, warrior spirit
• Famous Personality: Karan Casey, Irish folk singer

70. O’Dwyer:

• Meaning: Dark and tanned
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Duibhir’
• Geographical Footprint: Mainly found in Tipperary
• Cultural Significance: Reflects a physical characteristic of early members
• Famous Personality: Peter O’Dwyer, Irish politician

71. Phelan:

• Meaning: Little wolf
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Faoláin’
• Geographical Footprint: Predominant in Waterford and Kilkenny
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes cunning and loyalty
• Famous Personality: Sean Phelan, Irish entrepreneur

72. Coffey:

• Meaning: Victorious
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Cobhthaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in Counties Cork and Kerry
• Cultural Significance: Suggests triumph and success
• Famous Personality: Paul Coffey, Canadian former professional ice hockey player

73. Power:

• Meaning: The poor man or the pauper
• Origin: Anglo-Norman, ‘le Poer’ in Gaelic
• Geographical Footprint: Strong presence in Waterford
• Cultural Significance: Reflects the social status of the original family
• Famous Personality: Tyrone Power, American actor

74. Whelan:

• Meaning: Joyful, happy
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Faoláin’
• Geographical Footprint: Prevalent in the Southeast, especially in Waterford
• Cultural Significance: Implies a pleasant and amiable nature
• Famous Personality: Glen Whelan, Irish footballer

75. Daly:

• Meaning: Assembler or counsellor
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Dálaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Found across Ireland, notably in Westmeath
• Cultural Significance: Represents wisdom and leadership
• Famous Personality: Tyne Daly, American actress

76. Doyle:

• Meaning: Dark stranger
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Dubhghaill’
• Geographical Footprint: Strong presence in Wicklow and Wexford
• Cultural Significance: Evokes a sense of mystery and adventure
• Famous Personality: Maria Doyle Kennedy, Irish singer and actress

77. Gallagher:

• Meaning: Descendant of foreign help
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Gallchobhair’
• Geographical Footprint: Very common in Donegal
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes assistance and cooperation
• Famous Personality: Noel Gallagher, English musician and songwriter

78. McCarthy:

• Meaning: Loving
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Mac Cárthaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Particularly in Cork and Kerry
• Cultural Significance: Reflects affection and benevolence
• Famous Personality: Cormac McCarthy, American novelist

79. O’Brien:

• Meaning: Descendant of Brian
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Briain’
• Geographical Footprint: Widespread, especially in Clare
• Cultural Significance: Tied to the legacy of Brian Boru, High King of Ireland
• Famous Personality: Conan O’Brien, American TV host and comedian

80. Walsh:

• Meaning: Welshman
• Origin: Anglo-Norman, ‘Breathnach’ in Gaelic
• Geographical Footprint: Found across Ireland, notably in Mayo and Kilkenny
• Cultural Significance: Indicates migration and integration
• Famous Personality: Joe Walsh, American musician and songwriter

81. McDonagh:

• Meaning: Worldly
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Mac Dhonnchadha’
• Geographical Footprint: Predominantly in Galway and Mayo
• Cultural Significance: Suggests experience and cosmopolitanism
• Famous Personality: Martin McDonagh, British-Irish playwright and filmmaker

82. Regan:

• Meaning: Little king
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Riagáin’
• Geographical Footprint: Mostly found in Cork and Meath
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes leadership and regality
• Famous Personality: Ronald Reagan, 40th President of the United States

83. Kiernan:

• Meaning: Little dark one
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Ciaráin’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in Cavan and surrounding areas
• Cultural Significance: Denotes a characteristic of the original bearers
• Famous Personality: Caitlin Kiernan, American author and paleontologist

84. Quigley:

• Meaning: Maternal side
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Coigligh’
• Geographical Footprint: Concentrated in Donegal
• Cultural Significance: Represents matriarchal lineage
• Famous Personality: Aidan Quigley, Irish businessman

85. O’Connell:

• Meaning: Strong as a wolf
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Conaill’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in Kerry
• Cultural Significance: Evokes strength and resilience
• Famous Personality: Daniel O’Connell, 19th-century Irish political leader

86. MacMahon/McMahon:

• Meaning: Son of the bear
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Mac Mathghamhna’
• Geographical Footprint: Prevalent in Monaghan
• Cultural Significance: Indicates strength and bravery
• Famous Personality: Vince McMahon, American wrestling promoter

87. Callaghan:

• Meaning: Strife or contention
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Ceallacháin’
• Geographical Footprint: Especially found in Cork
• Cultural Significance: Suggests a fiery or passionate nature
• Famous Personality: John A. Callaghan, American naval officer

88. Flaherty:

• Meaning: Ruler of the territory
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Flaithbheartaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Predominantly in Galway
• Cultural Significance: Signifies leadership and territorial command
• Famous Personality: Robert J. Flaherty, American filmmaker

89. Cassidy:

• Meaning: Clever or curly-haired
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Caiside’
• Geographical Footprint: Most common in Fermanagh
• Cultural Significance: Reflects intelligence or distinct physical trait
• Famous Personality: David Cassidy, American actor and singer

90. Daly:

• Meaning: Assembly or counselor
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Dálaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Widespread, particularly in Westmeath and Kerry
• Cultural Significance: Represents leadership and wisdom
• Famous Personality: John Daly, American professional golfer

91. Cullen:

• Meaning: Holly
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Cuilinn’
• Geographical Footprint: Frequently found in Wicklow and Kilkenny
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes life and protection
• Famous Personality: Countee Cullen, renowned American poet during the Harlem Renaissance

92. Maguire:

• Meaning: Son of the beige one
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Mag Uidhir’
• Geographical Footprint: Particularly common in Fermanagh
• Cultural Significance: Indicates noble lineage
• Famous Personality: Tobey Maguire, American actor

93. Roche:

• Meaning: Rest
• Origin: Norman origin, ‘de Roiste’ in Gaelic
• Geographical Footprint: Strong presence in Cork and Limerick
• Cultural Significance: Associated with Norman settlement in Ireland
• Famous Personality: Sebastien Roche, French-American actor

94. Curran:

• Meaning: Hero or champion
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Corráin’
• Geographical Footprint: Most prevalent in Down and Derry
• Cultural Significance: Reflects valor and heroism
• Famous Personality: John Philpot Curran, Irish orator and judge

95. Connolly:

• Meaning: Fierce as a hound
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Conghaile’
• Geographical Footprint: Widespread, particularly in Galway
• Cultural Significance: Implies bravery and fierceness
• Famous Personality: James Connolly, Irish socialist leader

96. Boyle:

• Meaning: Vain pledge
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Baoill’
• Geographical Footprint: Predominant in Donegal
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes a historical vow or commitment
• Famous Personality: Robert Boyle, Anglo-Irish natural philosopher

97. Donohoe:

• Meaning: Dark warrior
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Donnchadha’
• Geographical Footprint: Especially common in Cavan and surrounding areas
• Cultural Significance: Indicates a warrior heritage
• Famous Personality: Denis Donoghue, Irish literary critic

98. Duffy:

• Meaning: Dark
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Dufaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Most common in Monaghan
• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes the dark and mysterious
• Famous Personality: Aimee Duffy, Welsh singer-songwriter known as Duffy

99. Kavanagh:

• Meaning: Born handsome
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Caomhánaigh’
• Geographical Footprint: Strongly associated with Carlow and Wexford
• Cultural Significance: Suggests beauty and nobility
• Famous Personality: Thomas Kavanagh, recipient of the Victoria Cross

100. Keegan:

• Meaning: Little fiery one
• Origin: Gaelic ‘Ó Céagain’
• Geographical Footprint: Common in Mayo and Longford
• Cultural Significance: Represents passion and vitality
• Famous Personality: Kevin Keegan, English football manager and former player

Conclusion:

We have had quite the journey through the world of Irish surnames, haven’t we? From the noble O’Briens to the spirited Kellys, every name has a story to tell. It is amazing how these names arenot just labels but are like little pieces of Ireland’s history, each with its own tale. These Irish last names really do give us a glimpse into the heart and soul of Ireland and its people! Hope you enjoyed this article. Let us know in the comments section below.

Disclaimer:

This article is designed as an informative guide on Irish surnames, intended primarily for educational purposes. The content herein is the result of extensive research from various online sources. Responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information rests with the author and the hosting website. However, the content given in this article should be utilized only as a reference tool for those seeking insights into the origins and meanings of Irish surnames.