Here is a list of 100 of the most common Irish surnames, along with their meanings, original Irish language equivalents, and county or region of origin:

  1. Murphy – “Sea warrior” – Ó Murchadha – Wexford, Cork
  2. Kelly – “Bright-headed” – Ó Ceallaigh – Galway, Meath
  3. O’Sullivan – “Descendant of little dark-eyed one” – Ó Súileabháin – Cork, Kerry
  4. Walsh – “Welshman” – Breathnach – Kilkenny, Mayo
  5. Smith – “Craftsman or metal worker” – Mac Gabhann – Cavan
  6. O’Brien – “Descendant of Brian Boru” – Ó Briain – Clare, Limerick
  7. Byrne – “Descendant of Bran, a raven” – Ó Broin – Wicklow
  8. Ryan – “Little king” – Ó Riain – Tipperary, Limerick
  9. O’Connor – “Descendant of Conchobhar (lover of hounds)” – Ó Conchobhair – Kerry, Connacht
  10. O’Neill – “Descendant of Niall” – Ó Néill – Tyrone, Antrim
  11. O’Reilly – “Descendant of Raghallach” – Ó Raghallaigh – Cavan, Longford
  12. Doyle – “Dark foreigner” – Ó Dubhghaill – Wexford
  13. McCarthy – “Loving” – Mac Cárthaigh – Cork, Kerry
  14. Gallagher – “Descendant of foreign helper” – Ó Gallchobhair – Donegal
  15. Doherty – “Unlucky” – Ó Dochartaigh – Donegal
  16. Kennedy – “Ugly-headed” – Ó Cinnéide – Tipperary
  17. Lynch – “Mariner” – Ó Loinsigh – Galway, Cork
  18. Murray – “Lord or master” – Ó Muireadhaigh – Westmeath, Roscommon
  19. Quinn – “Descendant of Conn” – Ó Cuinn – Tyrone, Antrim
  20. Moore – “Noble” – Ó Mordha – Laois
  21. McLoughlin – “Son of Lochlann (Norseman)” – Mac Lochlainn – Donegal
  22. O’Carroll – “Descendant of Cearbhall” – Ó Cearbhaill – Offaly, Laois
  23. Connolly – “Descendant of Conghalach” – Ó Conghalaigh – Monaghan, Galway
  24. Daly – “Assembly” – Ó Dálaigh – Westmeath, Cork
  25. O’Mahony – “Bear-like” – Ó Mathghamhna – Cork, Kerry
  26. O’Donnell – “Descendant of Domhnall” – Ó Domhnaill – Donegal
  27. O’Connell – “Descendant of Conall” – Ó Conaill – Kerry, Limerick
  28. O’Leary – “Keeper of calves” – Ó Laoghaire – Cork
  29. McGrath – “Son of grace” – Mac Craith – Waterford, Clare
  30. Fitzgerald – “Son of Gerald” – Mac Gearailt – Kerry, Kildare
  31. Healy – “Ingenious” – Ó hÉalaighthe – Cork, Sligo
  32. Sweeney – “Pleasant” – Mac Suibhne – Donegal
  33. Keane – “Fighter” – Ó Catháin – Clare, Limerick
  34. Power – “Poor” – de Paor – Waterford
  35. McKenna – “Son of Cionaodh” – Mac Cionaoith – Monaghan, Tyrone
  36. Flanagan – “Ruddy” – Ó Flannagáin – Roscommon
  37. O’Flynn – “Descendant of Flann” – Ó Floinn – Cork
  38. O’Dwyer – “Descendant of Dubhuidhir” – Ó Duibhir – Tipperary
  39. Farrell – “Man of valor” – Ó Fearghaill – Longford
  40. O’Rourke – “Champion” – Ó Ruairc – Leitrim
  41. Collins – “Descendant of Cuilein” – Ó Coileáin – Cork, Limerick
  42. Brennan – “Descendant of Braonán” – Ó Braonáin – Kilkenny
  43. O’Kane – “Descendant of Cathán” – Ó Catháin – Derry, Antrim
  44. Clarke – “Clerk” – Ó Cléirigh – Donegal
  45. O’Malley – “Descendant of a servant of Mary” – Ó Máille – Mayo, Galway
  46. Fitzpatrick – “Son of Patrick” – Mac Giolla Phádraig – Laois
  47. O’Keeffe – “Gentle” – Ó Caoimh – Cork
  48. Sheehan – “Peaceful” – Ó Síocháin – Kerry, Cork
  49. Maguire – “Son of the beige one” – Mac Uidhir – Fermanagh
  50. McDonnell – “Son of Domhnall” – Mac Domhnaill – Antrim, Clare
  51. O’Doherty – “Descendant of Dochartaigh” – Ó Dochartaigh – Donegal
  52. Cunningham – “Leader” – Mac Cuinneagáin – Donegal
  53. Nolan – “Descendant of Nuallán” – Ó Nualláin – Carlow
  54. O’Hanlon – “Descendant of Anluain” – Ó hAnluain – Armagh
  55. Cullen – “Descendant of Cuileann” – Ó Cuilinn – Wicklow, Wexford
  56. MacMahon – “Son of the bear” – Mac Mathúna – Clare, Monaghan
  57. Foley – “Plunderer” – Ó Foghladha – Waterford, Kerry
  58. O’Shea – “Descendant of Seaghdha” – Ó Séaghdha – Kerry, Cork
  59. White – “Fair” – de Faoite – Limerick, Wexford
  60. O’Callaghan – “Descendant of Ceallacháin” – Ó Ceallacháin – Cork
  61. Duffy – “Dark” – Ó Dubhthaigh – Monaghan
  62. O’Dea – “Fire” – Ó Deághaidh – Clare
  63. O’Farrell – “Man of valor” – Ó Fearghail – Longford
  64. McNamara – “Hound of the sea” – Mac Conmara – Clare
  65. O’Dowd – “Dark” – Ó Dubhda – Sligo
  66. O’Toole – “Descendant of Tuathal” – Ó Tuathail – Wicklow
  67. O’Grady – “Noble” – Ó Grádaigh – Limerick
  68. O’Kavanagh – “Son of Caomhánach” – Mac Caomháin – Wexford, Carlow
  69. Bergin – “Little rock” – Ó Beirgin – Laois
  70. O’Gorman – “Descendant of Gormghoin” – Ó Gormáin – Clare, Kilkenny
  71. O’Donoghue – “Descendant of Donnchadh” – Ó Donnchadha – Kerry, Cork
  72. Boyle – “Noble” – Ó Baoill – Donegal
  73. O’Hehir – “Lords of the land” – Ó hEithir – Clare
  74. O’Casey – “Descendant of Cathasaigh” – Ó Cathasaigh – Dublin
  75. O’Driscoll – “Descendant of the interpreter” – Ó hEidirsceoil – Cork
  76. O’Higgins – “Descendant of Uigín” – Ó hUigínn – Meath, Westmeath
  77. O’Daly – “Descendant of the assembly” – Ó Dálaigh – Westmeath, Cork
  78. O’Quinlan – “Descendant of Caoinlean” – Ó Caoindealbháin – Cork
  79. MacDermott – “Descendant of Diarmuid” – Mac Diarmada – Roscommon
  80. McEvoy – “Son of Eochaidh” – Mac Fhiodhbhuidhe – Laois, Offaly
  81. O’Gara – “Descendant of fear” – Ó Gadhra – Sligo
  82. O’Hanrahan – “Descendant of Annracháin” – Ó hAnnracháin – Carlow, Wexford
  83. O’Rafferty – “Weaver” – Ó Rabhartaigh – Tyrone
  84. O’Clery – “Scholar” – Ó Cléirigh – Donegal
  85. O’Rourke – “Champion” – Ó Ruairc – Leitrim
  86. O’Boyle – “Noble” – Ó Baoill – Donegal
  87. MacCarthy – “Loving” – Mac Cárthaigh – Cork, Kerry
  88. O’Conlon – “Descendant of Conall” – Ó Conalláin – Monaghan
  89. O’Heffernan – “Descendant of Eifion” – Ó hIfearnáin – Tipperary
  90. O’Tighe – “Householder” – Ó Taidhg – Galway, Mayo
  91. O’Mooney – “Descendant of Múine” – Ó Maonaigh – Clare
  92. MacDonnell – “Son of Domhnall” – Mac Domhnaill – Antrim, Clare
  93. O’Fahy – “Descendant of the woods” – Ó Fathaigh – Galway
  94. O’Hennessy – “Descendant of Aonghus” – Ó hAonghusa – Laois
  95. O’Loughlin – “Descendant of Lochlainn” – Ó Lochlainn – Clare
  96. O’Dea – “Fire” – Ó Deághaidh – Clare
  97. O’Mara – “Descendant of Meara” – Ó Meadhra – Tipperary
  98. O’Halloran – “Stranger from across the sea” – Ó hAllmhuráin – Galway
  99. MacGiolla – “Servant of” – Mac Giolla – Various
  100. O’Scanlan – “Descendant of Scanlán” – Ó Scanláin – Kerry

Ancestral Towns and Villages

Explore key towns and counties across Ireland, highlighting the deep historical connections to various prominent Irish families.

  1. Armagh, County Armagh – The Donnellys
    Known as the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland, Armagh is associated with the Donnelly family and other notable Gaelic names. Armagh’s rich spiritual and political history makes it a significant place for those tracing their ancestry, particularly for families with deep religious or clerical roots in Ireland. St. Patrick’s Cathedral, along with ancient sites like Navan Fort, provide layers of history for visitors to explore.
  2. Athlone, County Westmeath – The O’Melaghlins
    Athlone, located on the banks of the River Shannon, has deep connections to the O’Melaghlin family, who were kings of Meath. Their stronghold at Athlone Castle played a crucial role in the defense of the Midlands. Today, Athlone is a vibrant town where visitors can explore the castle, walk along the river, and trace their connection to one of Ireland’s ancient ruling families.
  3. Ballina, County Mayo – The Bourkes
    Ballina, a picturesque town on the River Moy, is connected to the Bourke family, who were influential in County Mayo. The Bourkes were a prominent Gaelic family who ruled much of the area. The town’s proximity to the Wild Atlantic Way and sites like Belleek Castle make Ballina a great destination for those exploring their Bourke ancestry.
  4. Ballycastle, County Antrim – The MacDonnells
    On the rugged coast of County Antrim, Ballycastle is linked to the MacDonnell family, one of the most powerful Gaelic families in Ulster. Known for their involvement in clan warfare and their alliances with Scottish clans, the MacDonnells left a lasting legacy in this part of Ireland. Visitors can explore nearby Dunluce Castle, which the MacDonnells once called home, as well as the scenic beauty of the Causeway Coast.
  5. Bunratty, County Clare – The MacNamaras
    Bunratty is closely tied to the MacNamara clan, who were instrumental in the construction and maintenance of the famous Bunratty Castle. The MacNamaras were powerful in County Clare and played a pivotal role in the region’s medieval history. Visitors to Bunratty can explore the castle and the nearby folk park, which offers a glimpse into rural Irish life during different periods of history.
  6. Carrickfergus, County Antrim – The Fergusons
    Carrickfergus, with its imposing Norman castle, is tied to the Ferguson family, among others. The town has been a key player in Irish history, from the Norman invasion to its role in the defense of Ireland. For anyone with roots in Northern Ireland, particularly those connected to the Fergusons, Carrickfergus offers a wealth of historical insights and a deep connection to the past.
  7. Cashel, County Tipperary – The Ryans
    The historic town of Cashel is associated with the Ryan family, who were influential in Tipperary’s agricultural and political life. The Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, was the traditional seat of the Kings of Munster. Those with Ryan ancestry will find Cashel’s medieval roots and its dramatic landscape a meaningful place to visit.
  8. Clifden, County Galway – The O’Flahertys
    Known as the “Capital of Connemara,” Clifden is associated with the O’Flaherty family, who were rulers of the western coastlands. The O’Flahertys controlled vast territories in Connacht and were known for their resistance to Norman and English rule. Visitors can explore the rugged beauty of Connemara, visit nearby Kylemore Abbey, and delve into the history of the O’Flahertys in this breathtaking region.
  9. Clonmel, County Tipperary – The Burkes
    Clonmel, a historic town in County Tipperary, has connections to the Burke family, who were instrumental in shaping the political landscape of Munster. Known for its involvement in Ireland’s tumultuous history, Clonmel offers sites like the preserved town walls and Franciscan Friary. Those with Burke ancestry will find this town a meaningful stop when exploring their family’s past.
  10. Cobh, County Cork – The O’Sullivans and McCarthys
    Once a bustling port of emigration during the 19th century, Cobh was the last sight of Ireland for many Irish emigrants. Many O’Sullivans and McCarthys have roots in the surrounding Cork area. Cobh offers a poignant place to begin tracing Irish family lines, with its deep connection to Ireland’s history of emigration and a beautiful coastal setting.
  11. Dingle, County Kerry – The O’Sullivans
    The O’Sullivan family, one of the great Gaelic clans of Munster, is closely tied to Dingle, a vibrant fishing town on the Dingle Peninsula. The O’Sullivans were known for their resistance to English rule, and the area is rich in history, with the Blasket Islands and Mount Brandon providing stunning backdrops for those with O’Sullivan lineage to explore their roots.
  12. Dungannon, County Tyrone – The O’Neills
    Dungannon holds a significant place in Irish history as the ancestral seat of the powerful O’Neill family. The O’Neills were one of the foremost Gaelic families in Ireland, and Dungannon is an ideal destination for those tracing their connections to Ireland’s ancient aristocracy. With historical sites like the Hill of the O’Neill, it offers a direct link to the past.
  13. Enniscorthy, County Wexford – The Murphys
    Enniscorthy holds significance for the Murphy family, one of the most common Irish surnames. The town played a key role during the Irish Rebellion of 1798, in which many Murphy family members were involved. Visitors can explore Enniscorthy Castle and the National 1798 Rebellion Centre to connect with this rich revolutionary history.
  14. Galway City, County Galway – The Lynchs
    Galway City is historically tied to the Lynch family, one of the famed “Tribes of Galway.” The Lynchs were prominent merchants who helped shape Galway into a bustling trade hub during the medieval period. Visitors with Lynch ancestry can explore Lynch’s Castle, a well-preserved medieval townhouse, and walk the streets that their ancestors once helped build.
  15. Killarney, County Kerry – The O’Donoghues
    Killarney, renowned for its stunning lakes and mountains, is linked to the O’Donoghue family, rulers of the region in ancient times. The O’Donoghue legends are tied to the lakes, particularly the famous O’Donoghue of the Glens. For those tracing their roots to Kerry, Killarney provides a beautiful and culturally rich setting to explore their O’Donoghue heritage.
  16. Kilkenny, County Kilkenny – The Butlers
    Kilkenny, a medieval city with a rich history, is closely associated with the powerful Butler family, who were Earls and later Dukes of Ormonde. The Butlers played a crucial role in Irish history, and visitors can explore Kilkenny Castle, a former Butler stronghold. The city’s medieval architecture and rich cultural offerings make it an excellent destination for those connected to the Butlers.
  17. Limerick City, County Limerick – The O’Briens
    Limerick City, with its strategic location on the River Shannon, is tied to the O’Brien family, descendants of the ancient kings of Thomond. The O’Briens were a powerful dynasty in Munster, and their influence is still evident in the region’s history. Visitors with O’Brien ancestry can explore King John’s Castle and other historical landmarks in the city that reflect the O’Brien legacy.
  18. Lisburn, County Antrim – The McCanns
    Lisburn, a city with a rich industrial heritage, is associated with the McCann family, who played a role in the local linen industry, for which the area is well known. Those with McCann ancestry can explore the history of Lisburn’s textile production and learn more about the area’s development through the centuries.
  19. Lismore, County Waterford – The Fitzgeralds
    Lismore is home to Lismore Castle, which was historically owned by the Fitzgerald family, one of Ireland’s most influential Norman families. The Fitzgeralds were prominent in Munster and beyond, contributing significantly to Irish politics and culture. Visitors with Fitzgerald roots can explore the beautiful castle and its gardens, as well as the historic town of Lismore.
  20. Macroom, County Cork – The O’Mahonys
    Macroom, a market town in County Cork, is associated with the O’Mahony family, a powerful Gaelic clan in the region. Known for their seafaring and warrior traditions, the O’Mahonys controlled much of southwest Cork. The town’s castle, once controlled by the family, and the surrounding countryside offer a glimpse into the area’s rich Gaelic heritage.
  21. Mallow, County Cork – The Nagles
    Mallow is tied to the Nagle family, a prominent name in the region. Nano Nagle, a notable figure from this family, founded the Presentation Sisters, a Catholic religious order. Those with Nagle ancestry will find Mallow and the nearby Nagle Mountains a meaningful place to visit, particularly for those interested in family history and religious heritage.
  22. Navan, County Meath – The Plunketts
    Navan, located in the heart of County Meath, is linked to the Plunkett family, a significant name in Irish history. St. Oliver Plunkett, an Irish martyr, is one of the most famous members of this family. Visitors with Plunkett ancestry can explore Navan’s historical sites and learn more about this family’s enduring legacy in Ireland.
  23. New Ross, County Wexford – The Kennedys
    New Ross is famously associated with the Kennedy family, whose most notable descendant, John F. Kennedy, became the 35th President of the United States. Visitors can explore the Kennedy Homestead and learn about the family’s emigration story, which connects New Ross to a significant chapter in both Irish and American history.
  24. Omagh, County Tyrone – The O’Neills
    Omagh, a town in County Tyrone, is tied to the O’Neill dynasty, one of the most powerful Gaelic families in Ireland. The O’Neills were central to Ulster’s resistance against English conquest. For those with O’Neill ancestry, Omagh offers a deep connection to the history of the O’Neill family and their impact on Irish history.
  25. Sligo Town, County Sligo – The O’Connors
    Sligo is linked to the O’Connor family, who were kings of Connacht and High Kings of Ireland. The O’Connors played a major role in the medieval history of Ireland. Visitors with O’Connor lineage can explore Sligo’s rich cultural and historical sites, including Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery and the surrounding scenic beauty of the northwest.
  26. Thurles, County Tipperary – The Dwyers
    Thurles, a town in County Tipperary, has strong connections to the Dwyer family, who were involved in various uprisings throughout Irish history. The area’s revolutionary past and its significance in Gaelic sports make it an important stop for anyone tracing their Dwyer roots.
  27. Tipperary Town, County Tipperary – The O’Dwyers
    Tipperary Town is closely associated with the O’Dwyer family, a clan known for their involvement in the 17th-century wars against English rule. The O’Dwyers played a significant role in County Tipperary’s history, and visitors with O’Dwyer ancestry can explore the town and nearby historical sites that reflect the family’s legacy.
  28. Tralee, County Kerry – The Fitzgeralds
    Tralee, the capital of County Kerry, is linked to the Fitzgerald family, one of the most powerful Norman families in Ireland. The Fitzgeralds of Desmond held vast estates in the area and were key figures in the region’s political history. Visitors to Tralee can explore the town’s history, including connections to the Fitzgeralds, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the nearby Dingle Peninsula.
  29. Waterford City, County Waterford – The Powers
    Waterford City, Ireland’s oldest city, is connected to the Power family, who were influential in the area’s development. The Powers were prominent landowners and merchants in Waterford, and their legacy is still evident today. Visitors with Power ancestry can explore the city’s Viking and Norman history through sites like Reginald’s Tower and Waterford’s medieval walls.
  30. Westport, County Mayo – The Brownes
    Westport, a picturesque town in County Mayo, is associated with the Browne family, who built Westport House. The Brownes were influential landlords in the region, and their estate remains one of the most beautiful heritage sites in Ireland. Visitors with Browne lineage can explore the estate, the town, and the surrounding landscapes of Clew Bay.