Surname Connally - Meaning and Origin

Connally: What does the surname Connally mean?

The surname Connally is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name "Ó Conghalaigh." The prefix "Ó" represents the term "descendant" or "grandson," and "Conghalaigh" translates to "valorous" or "brave as a wolf". It is therefore understood to mean "descendant of the valorous one" or "descendant of the brave as a wolf". The Connally family was a part of the Irish clans system tracing back to the 10th century and had strong territorial associations in specific parts of Ireland. Variations of the name include Connolly, Connelly, O’Connally, and Conally. Like many Irish surnames, a large number of Connallys were forced to leave their homeland during the Great Famine in the mid-nineteenth century, seeking better opportunities in new lands such as America, Australia, and Canada. Despite its origins, the Connally surname now has a worldwide presence.

Connally: Where does the name Connally come from?

The surname Connally is of Irish origin. It is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic name Ó Conghalaigh, which means "descendant of Conghalach". The name Conghalach itself has elements that mean "hound" and "valor", suggesting a symbolic meaning of "brave or fierce as a hound". Primarily, this surname is associated with the provinces of Westmeath, Offaly, and Connacht in Ireland.

In the past, the Connallys were a powerful family in Ireland, contributing to arts, religion, and politics. Today, the surname Connally is most common in the United States, especially in regions with a large Irish diaspora, like Boston, New York, and Chicago. Despite this, it is not a particularly widespread surname. It is also still found in Ireland, though less common than in the past. Its different spellings include Connelly, Connolly, Connalley, Conally, and others.

Variations of the surname Connally

The surname Connally is of Irish origin and it is believed to be derived from the Gaelic O'Conghalaigh, which translates to "valiant".

There are numerous variants and alternate spellings for Connally due to the many ways Gaelic names were anglicized over the centuries. Some of these variations include: Connolly, Connelly, O'Connolly, O'Connelly, Connolley, Conley, Conly, Connoly, Connoley, Conolly, Conoley, Connalie, and Connellye.

Surname variants often occur due to regional differences, individual interpretations of the pronunciation, and illiteracy (when names were written down how they sounded phonetically). Each variant can potentially represent a unique branch in the family tree and may provide important clues in genealogical research.

As each variant and spelling represents diverse individuals and family lines, each will have its unique history and distribution pattern. Some versions may be more prevalent in certain geographical areas or among certain social classes. Some spellings may indicate an individual's religious or political affiliations. Therefore, it's essential to consider all potential variations when researching a particular surname.

Also, keep in mind that name variants may also occur due to translation and variation in languages. For example, the name Connally may be translated and appear differently in other languages.

Famous people with the name Connally

• John Bowden Connally Jr.: An influential American politician, serving as the 39th Governor of Texas, U.S. Secretary of the Navy under President Kennedy, and U.S. Secretary of the Treasury under President Nixon.
• Tom Connally: A U.S. political figure who served as a Senator from Texas. He is notable for co-authoring the Connally Amendment, which limited U.S. involvement in the United Nations.
• Idanell "Nellie" Brill Connally: The wife of John Connally, she was in JFK’s motorcade when he was assassinated and became known for her account of the event.
• Mike Connally: A former American basketball player, best known for his time with the Boston Celtics.
• Gary Connally: A retired jockey who became known in the horse racing industry.
• Katherine Connally: An actress known for movies like "Where the Heart Is".
• Jennifer Connally: An accomplished endurance athlete.
• Kerri Connally: A competitive Irish dancer turned successful dance educator.
• Ben Connally: An American District Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas.
• Edward A. Connally: An American jurist and legislator.

Other surnames

ConnalanConnall