Surname O'Neillan - Meaning and Origin

O'Neillan: What does the surname O'Neillan mean?

The surname O’Neillan is an anglicized form of the Irish name Ó Néilláin, which translates to "descendant of Niallán". Niallán was a personal name which is believed to have originated from the Gaelic word for "champion".

The O'Neillan name is associated with County Cork in south western Ireland and was first found in the barony of Orrery and Kilmore. Over time, many members of the family traveled or migrated, appearing in Offaly, Dublin and Kerry, as well as an infusion of British background since the mid 1600s. The family was dispersed to locations throughout the world during the great Irish diaspora of the 19th century.

The legacy of the O’Neillan name is deep and far-reaching. Beyond the geographical and cultural reach of the Irish-born members, their mark is on the achievements of the many generations of those whose parents, grandparents and beyond had the same surname.

Members of the O’Neillan family can be found working across various fields including science, medicine, business, politics and the arts. There is a great feeling of pride that comes from knowing that the surname has been carried through the centuries and is still around today.

So, the name O’Neillan is thought to have originated from the Irish words meaning “Champion” and ties the family together for generations – a reminder of where the name comes from and a reminder that you are part of something bigger, something to take pride in, something that speaks to a legacy of ambition and distinction.

O'Neillan: Where does the name O'Neillan come from?

The surname O'Neillan is an Irish surname. It is most common in Northwestern Ireland, primarily in the counties of Galway, Donegal, and Wexford. It is believed to be derived from the personal name Niall, and thus may have originally denoted a descendant of Niall of the Nine Hostages, the legendary fifth century king of Ireland.

The majority of those with the surname can still be found in Northwestern Ireland. The surname is relatively common within these counties, tracing back to many distinct lineages that have been in the region for centuries. It can also be found in other parts of Ireland such as Dublin, Leitrim, Cork, and Mayo.

Outside of Ireland, the surname O'Neillan can be found in countries with large populations of people of Irish descent. This includes countries in the United Kingdom such as England, Scotland, and Wales. There is a noticeable presence of O'Neillan's in many American states as well, particularly in large cities such as Chicago, New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia. The surname may also be found elsewhere, including in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

No matter where it is found, the surname O'Neillan is associated with Irish roots and a proud heritage. It is a testament to the rich and influential history of the Irish people, and a reminder of the deep-rooted cultural connection of those with this surname.

Variations of the surname O'Neillan

The O'Neillan (Irish: Ó Néilláin or Mac Néilláin) surname originates from the noble Uí Néill dynasty, who were kings of medieval Ireland and Scotland and rulers of the esteemed Connacht province of Northwest Ireland. It is one of the largest and oldest clans in Gaelic history.

The variants, spellings, and surnames that share a common origin with O'Neillan include: O'Nehilane, O'Nillan, O'Nellan, O'Neillane, O'Neallain, O'Nilean, O'Niallain, MacNeillan, MacNillan, McNeillan, McNellan, McNehilane, and MacNilean.

The O'Neillans were once known in mythology as the Warrior Kings of Ulster and were thought to be descendants of the legendary Niall of the Nine Hostages who stood at the top of the Uí Néill dynasty. Through their lineage, they played a major role in the formation of the Irish nation and its people.

The O'Neillan surname is still well-known and renowned in Ireland and, not surprisingly, is still prevalent in all provinces. Within the United States and other countries around the world, the surname remains popular among immigrants, descendants of immigrants, and people who share a connection to those who originally held the surname.

The O'Neillan surname has contributed greatly to Irish history and is still highly regarded with immense pride by those who are fortunate enough to call it their own. Its variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin only add to the legacy that the O'Neillan name provides.

Famous people with the name O'Neillan

• Neil O'Neillan: former rugby international for Ireland.
• Bridget O'Neillan: Irish actress and singer.
• John O'Neillan: former professional boxer and early MMA practitioner.
• Shane O'Neillan: Irish actor best known for his roles in television dramas.
• Petey O'Neillan: Irish-American country musician.
• Maurice O'Neillan: Irish playwright and theatre director.
• Seán O'Neillan: former European men's discus throw champion.
• Eugene O'Neillan: American playwright and Nobel laureate.
• Conor O'Neillan: Gaelic footballer for Antrim.
• Barry O'Neillan: former Olympic swimmer for Ireland.
• Hugh O'Neillan: former English rugby league player.
• Gerard O'Neillan: Irish jockey and horse trainer.
• Paddy O'Neillan: Irish hurler. 14. Charlie O'Neillan: former Australian rules footballer.
• Jack O'Neillan: Irish-American film director.
• Rebecca O'Neillan: American painter and sculptor.

Other surnames

O'NeillO'Neille