Surname O'Guaire - Meaning and Origin
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O'Guaire: What does the surname O'Guaire mean?
The last name O'Guaire is an Irish surname found primarily in modern day County Mayo and County Galway. The name is an anglicization of the Irish name Ó hAodha, which translates to 'descendant of Aodh'. Aodh was an ancient Celtic god who was associated with the sun, fire, poetry, and music.
The name was found in various forms in its various spellings in the 1600s, and it was particularly associated with the O'Guaire sept. This clan was once a prominent tribe in the area and primarily inhabited modern day Mayo and Galway. There are still a number of O'Guaire families living in these counties today, as well as a scattered community of descendants in the US, Canada, and Australia.
The name O'Guaire holds a strong association with Irish heritage and culture and reflects the proud traditions of its Celtic ancestors. It's a reminder of the strength and perseverance of those who have gone before, and it's arguably a badge of honour for the O'Guaire families who have gone on to establish themselves in different corners of the world. Today, the name stands as a reminder of the courage and resilience of the Irish people and all they have achieved.
Order DNA origin analysisO'Guaire: Where does the name O'Guaire come from?
The O'Guaire (also spelled O'Guaire) surname has a long history, tracing its roots in Ireland back to the 2nd century AD. Today, the surname is most common in the western province of Connacht, particularly in Galway and Sligo.
Within Galway, the clan was centered in Kilconly and Tuam. Though originated in this area, members of the O'Guaire clan can be found throughout the west of Ireland, with a handful residing in Dublin, Cork, and Kerry. The O'Guaire surname is also scattered across the world, with a small number of people bearing the name living in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
Most members of the O'Guaire (or O'Guaire) clan are descendants of one common ancestor, known as Aodhagán Uí Ghuairí. Some of the earliest known references to the O'Guaire surname date back to the 12th century when the clan was included in the "Ancient Tribes of Ireland."
Today, the O'Guaire family is a proud one, with a rich history and heritage that can be traced back to its ancient roots. Though the name has spread throughout the world, it is still most commonly found in the province of Connacht, particularly in Galway and Sligo.
Variations of the surname O'Guaire
The surname O'Guaire has several variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin. O'Guaire is an Anglicization of the Irish surname O'Gadhra, which has other spellings and variants, including O'Guire, O'Gawry, and O'Gahry. In Old Irish, the word “gadhra” means “fierce-looking”.
The Irish surname O'Gadhra is the root of many surnames, including Gowry, Guerrie, Guaire, Gwiray, and Gwer. In Scotland, the Gaelic variant of O'Guaire is MacGwire. In England, the larger variant of the surname is Gwire, while in Ireland the original spelling persists.
In addition to O'Guaire and its variants, there are other Irish surnames that are derived from the same root, with similar meanings and pronunciations. These names include O'Gerraghty and O'Geary. O'Geraghty, in particular, is derived from the Irish word "Gearrach," which means “brave” or “prudent.”
The surname O'Gadhra derives from a clan that held the hereditary title of King of Ui Fiachrach, which was part of the province of Connacht. Historically, the family was active in the politics of Connacht and were respected by both Gaelic and Norman conquerors. The family was especially active in county Mayo, which is where the original O'Guaire clan resided.
In general, Irish surnames are known for their long histories and cultural importance. Some families can trace their names back to the 12th century, and O'Guaire is no exception. The name has gone through many transformations over the centuries, from O'Gadhra to O'Guaire, and is an important part of Irish genealogical records.
Famous people with the name O'Guaire
- Patrick O'Guaire: Irishborn actor, known for playing Davin in the 2019 movie Last Call.
- Roisin O'Guaire: former Irish News anchor and reporter, now a news director for RTÉ.
- Seamus O'Guaire: Irish actor who played an important role in the 1984 movie, My Left Foot.
- Joseph O'Guaire: Irish novelist, winner of the 2016 Irish Book Awards for his novel, The Sunday Paper.
- Maurice O'Guaire: Irish fiddle player from Mayo, noted for his traditional style of music.
- Eamon O'Guaire: Irish rugby player, played for Munster and Harlequins.
- David O'Guaire: Irish comedian and TV personality, has appeared on various television shows.
- Sile O'Guaire: Irish authority on traditional Irish music, has written several books on the topic.
- Lawrence O'Guaire: founder of oGara Groups, a specialist technology consultancy firm.
- Marie O'Guaire: Irish actress, known for her roles in the 2014 movie Sing Street, and the television series Derry Girls.