MERRIGAN
Merrigan
Merrigan is a surname of Irish origin, deriving from the Gaelic name Ó Muireagáin, meaning "descendant of Muireagán". The name is prominent in Irish history and is commonly found in County Clare and County Limerick.
Origins and Meaning
The surname Merrigan is believed to have originated from the personal name Muireagán, which itself comes from the Irish word "muir," meaning "sea." The suffix "-agán" translates to "little" or "young," so Muireagán may have signified a person of youthful appearance or spirit.
History
The Merrigan family can trace its roots back to ancient Gaelic tribes, where they were likely associated with the ruling classes or held positions of significance within the community. As with many Irish surnames, the Merrigan name was anglicised over the centuries, leading to variations in spelling and pronunciation.
Distribution and Popularity
Merrigan remains a relatively uncommon surname, with most individuals bearing the name residing in Ireland, the United Kingdom, and other countries with Irish diaspora populations. The surname can also be found in areas settled by Irish immigrants, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Notable Individuals
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Tom Merrigan (1919–2005): An Irish playwright known for his works exploring themes of cultural identity and social change.
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Eleanor Merrigan (b. 1980): A British historian specialising in Irish migration patterns during the 19th century.
References
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MacLysaght, E. (1985). The Surnames of Ireland. Dublin: Irish Academic Press.
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O'Brien, M. (2003). Irish Surnames: The Surnames, Their Origins and Meanings. Dublin: The O'Brien Press.
The surname Merrigan carries with it a rich history and connection to Irish heritage, making it a distinctive and enduring family name.
There are approximately 390 people named Merrigan in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Merrigan.
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
- Anthony
- Brian
- David
- Dennis
- James
- John
- Martin
- Michael
- Patrick
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
Female
- Ann
- Bernadette
- Cecilia
- Christine
- Emma
- Geraldine
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Kelly
- Maria
- Mary
- Sarah
- Sheree
- Shirley
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.