CONNOLY
Connoly
The surname Connoly, also spelled as Connolly, O'Connolly, or Connelly, is of ancient Gaelic origin and is common among people of Irish and Scottish descent. The surname is derived from the Old Gaelic name "O Conghaile," which means "descendant of Conghal," with Conghal being a personal name that translates to "high" or "noble."
The Connoly clan originated in Connacht, a province in western Ireland, and its members were historically associated with the ruling families of the region. Over time, the Connoly name spread to other parts of Ireland and Scotland, carried by families who migrated or were forced to relocate due to political and economic circumstances.
Like many Gaelic surnames, the spelling and pronunciation of Connoly have varied over the centuries, influenced by factors such as regional dialects and Anglicisation. The most common anglicised version, "Connolly," is widely accepted and used by modern descendants of the original Connoly clan.
Throughout history, individuals bearing the surname Connoly have made notable contributions to various fields, including literature, politics, and the arts. The name has retained a sense of identity and heritage for many who proudly trace their lineage back to the ancient Gaelic roots of the Connoly clan.
Today, the surname Connoly continues to thrive, with individuals across the United Kingdom and beyond proudly bearing this symbol of their Irish and Scottish ancestry. The history and legacy of the Connoly name serve as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage shared by the diverse peoples of the British Isles.
There are approximately 83 people named Connoly in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Connoly.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- David
- Grahame
- James
- John
- Michael
- Patrick
- Paul
- Richard
- Stephen
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Anne
- Claire
- Joanne
- Kathleen
- Margaret
- Maria
- Mary
- Rachel
- Sally
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.