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Origin of the Surname The surname Anderson, of Scandinavian origin, made its way into the British Isles during the Viking invasions and settlements. The name translates to “son of Andrew”, a direct and uncomplicated patronymic derivation. Andrew, a name of Greek origin meaning “manly” or “brave”, became popular in the Christian...
Origin of the Surname The McAllister surname, an anglicized form of the Gaelic “Mac Alasdair”, translates to “son of Alexander”. It’s a patronymic name that can be traced back to Scotland and the Isles, particularly to Alexander, Lord of the Isles, who descended from Somerled, a 12th-century Scottish prince. Etymology and Meaning The...
Origin of the Surname The surnames Allen and Allan, while commonly believed to have Celtic origins, are also closely associated with Norman and Breton settlers in Britain and Ireland. These names can be derived from the Gaelic word “ailín” meaning “little rock” or from the Old Breton word “alun” signifying a harmony or concord...
Origin of the Surname The name Alexander, while of Greek origin, has been adopted and anglicized in many countries, including Ireland. Its original Greek form, “Alexandros”, is composed of the elements “alexein” (to defend) and “aner” (man). In essence, it means “Defender of Men”. Etymology and Meaning The surname...
Origin of the Surname The Ahern or Aherne surname is of ancient Gaelic origin, deeply rooted in Irish history. Both versions of the name derive from the original Gaelic “O hEachthigheirn” or “O hEachthigheirna”. Etymology and Meaning The name itself combines two primary Gaelic words: “each”, meaning “horse”, and...
Origin of the Surname The surname Agnew, distinguished in both Irish and Scottish history, is believed to have Norman origins. It was said to have been brought to the British Isles by the Normans during their conquest in the 11th century. Over time, it found its way to both Scotland and Ireland, becoming entrenched in the history and culture of both nations...
Origin of the Surname The surname Adams, predominantly associated with English roots, also has a significant presence in Irish genealogy. As with many surnames that have traveled through the realms of time and geography, its roots can be traced back to the biblical figure, Adam. Over time, the ‘son of Adam’ began to be denoted as “Adamson” or...
Origin of the Surname The O’Flaherty surname, known in its Gaelic form as Ó Flaithbheartaigh, is one of the distinguished surnames hailing from the emerald isle, bearing with it tales of bravery, aristocracy, and resilience. Etymology and Meaning The name Ó Flaithbheartaigh breaks down into two primary components: “Ó” meaning “descendant of” and...
Origin of the Surname The Lenehan surname, known in its Gaelic origin as Ó Luingeacháin, is a distinctive name that hails from the lush landscapes of Ireland. Although not as universally renowned as some Irish surnames, the history of the Lenehans is deeply woven into the fabric of Ireland’s storied past. Etymology and Meaning The name “Ó...
Origin of the Surname The Kavanagh surname, also known in its original Gaelic form as Caomhánach, traces its roots back to the ancient kingdom of Leinster, one of the four provinces of Ireland. This name is intrinsically linked with the medieval history of Ireland and the early chieftains and kings of the island. Etymology and Meaning The name...