GILLIGAN
Gilligan
Origin and Meaning
Gilligan is a surname of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Giolla again" which translates to "son of the servant of St. Canice." The name can be traced back to County Donegal in Ireland.
Historical Significance
The Gilligan surname has historical significance in Ireland, particularly in the areas where the name originated. The Gilligan family has been associated with various professions and roles throughout history, including serving as stewards and supporters of the local community.
Distribution
The Gilligan surname is relatively common in parts of Ireland and the United Kingdom. It has also been found in other English-speaking countries due to migration patterns over the centuries.
Famous Bearers
Notable individuals with the surname Gilligan include:
- Dr. John Gilligan, an Irish psychiatrist known for his work in mental health advocacy.
- Terry Gilligan, a British artist renowned for his landscape paintings.
- Mary Gilligan, an Australian politician who served in the Senate.
Legacy
The Gilligan surname has left a mark on various fields, including art, politics, and academia. The descendants of the Gilligan family continue to uphold the name's legacy and contribute to society in different ways.
There are approximately 2,664 people named Gilligan in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,344th most common surname in Britain. Around 41 in a million people in Britain are named Gilligan.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Ireland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Patrick
- Paul
- Stephen
- Thomas
Female
- Anne
- Catherine
- Colette
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Louise
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Sharon
- Susan
- Tracey
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.