Flinn

Flinn is a British surname of Old Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name O' Flainn. The name is believed to have originated from the Irish word "flann," meaning red or ruddy, and likely indicated a person with red hair or a ruddy complexion.

History

The Flinn surname first emerged in Ireland and later spread to the United Kingdom and other parts of the world through Irish emigration. The Flinn family has a long history, with records showing its presence in various regions of Ireland, particularly in County Donegal and County Offaly.

Several notable individuals bearing the Flinn surname have made significant contributions in various fields, including academia, arts, politics, and sports. The Flinn name has been preserved through generations, with many descendants continuing to bear the surname today.

Variants

Over the centuries, the Flinn surname has evolved and various spelling variations have emerged, including Flynn, O'Flynn, O'Flinn, and O'Flinn. These variants reflect the phonetic changes and linguistic influences on the surname as it travelled across regions and languages.

Distribution

The Flinn surname is relatively common in the British Isles, particularly in Ireland and the United Kingdom. It is also found among the Irish diaspora in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where Irish immigrants settled and established their families.

Legacy

The Flinn surname carries with it a rich heritage and a sense of pride for many individuals who bear it. It serves as a reminder of the ancestral roots of the family and the perseverance of generations who have passed down the name through history. Today, those with the surname Flinn continue to honour their heritage and contribute to the diverse tapestry of British society.

There are approximately 1,032 people named Flinn in the UK. That makes it roughly the 7,187th most common surname in Britain. Around 16 in a million people in Britain are named Flinn.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Malcolm
  • Michael
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Jacqueline
  • Janet
  • Jennifer
  • Judith
  • Karen
  • Kerry
  • Michelle
  • Patricia
  • Sarah

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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