Halligan

Halligan is a surname of English and Irish origin. The English version of the name is derived from the Old English personal name "Healluc," meaning "lover of ale." The Irish version comes from the Gaelic name "Ó hAileagáin," which means "descendant of Aileagán," a personal name of uncertain origin.

Origin: The Halligan surname has its roots in ancient English and Irish history. The English Halligans are typically associated with the counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire, while the Irish Halligans are found predominantly in County Waterford.

Notable People: Famous individuals with the surname Halligan include:

  • Dan Halligan: An English footballer who played for several clubs in the 1960s.
  • Claire Halligan: An Irish author known for her works on Irish folklore and mythology.
  • Simon Halligan: A British historian specialising in medieval English literature.

Coat of Arms: The Halligan family crest typically features symbols such as lions, stars, and crosses, which often represent courage, nobility, and faith. The design may vary depending on the specific branch of the family.

Popularity: The surname Halligan is relatively uncommon, ranking lower in popularity compared to more common British surnames. However, its historical significance and unique etymology make it a notable surname among genealogists and historians.

Variants: Variants of the Halligan surname may include spelling variations such as Halleghan, Hallighan, and Hallegan. These variations can be attributed to regional dialects and historical changes in spelling conventions.

Legacy: The Halligan surname carries with it a rich heritage and legacy, reflecting the diverse cultural influences of both English and Irish ancestry. Today, individuals with the surname Halligan can trace their roots back to a long line of ancestors who have contributed to the history and culture of the British Isles.

There are approximately 1,905 people named Halligan in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,381st most common surname in Britain. Around 29 in a million people in Britain are named Halligan.

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

  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Patrick
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Stephen
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Elizabeth
  • Frances
  • Joan
  • Laura
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Nicola
  • Pamela
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria

Similar and related surnames

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

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.