Garrity

Garrity is a British surname of Irish origin, with its roots stemming from the Gaelic name "O Gairbith," meaning "son of Gairbhith." The Garrity surname is commonly found in regions with strong Irish heritage and is prevalent among people of Irish descent residing in the United Kingdom.

Origin

The Garrity surname originated in Ireland and spread to other countries, including the United Kingdom, during waves of Irish emigration in the 19th and 20th centuries. Many Irish families bearing the Garrity surname settled in various parts of the UK, contributing to the diverse cultural fabric of British society.

Distribution

The surname Garrity is relatively less common compared to other Irish surnames but can be found in notable numbers in regions with significant Irish populations, such as Northern Ireland and Scotland. Garrity families have also established themselves in England and Wales over the years, with individuals bearing the surname making important contributions to various fields.

Notable Individuals

1. Joseph Garrity (1895-1967)

  • A prominent Irish-born British politician who served in the House of Commons during the mid-20th century. Known for his advocacy of social welfare policies and his commitment to improving working conditions for the labour force.

2. Eileen Garrity (b. 1952)

  • A respected British author and poet of Irish descent, known for her poignant explorations of identity, heritage, and cultural roots in her literary works.

Legacy

The Garrity surname, though not as widespread as some other Irish surnames, continues to hold significance for many British families of Irish heritage. It serves as a testament to the enduring influence of Irish culture and history on the diverse tapestry of identities that make up the British population.

There are approximately 1,768 people named Garrity in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,658th most common surname in Britain. Around 27 in a million people in Britain are named Garrity.

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Brian
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Martin
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Thomas

Female

  • Carole
  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Julie
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Sarah
  • Sharon
  • Susan

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