Neil

The surname Neil is derived from the Gaelic personal name Niall, which means "champion". It is of Scottish and Irish origin, and is found among the Celtic populations of the British Isles. The name is believed to have originated from the Norse Viking name Njall, which was introduced to Scotland and Ireland during the Viking invasions.

People with the surname Neil can be found across the United Kingdom and beyond. The name has various regional variations, such as Neill, McNeill, and O'Neill, reflecting the historical migration patterns and settlement of Celtic populations.

The Neil surname has a rich history and is associated with various notable individuals in British and Irish history. From military leaders to scholars, entrepreneurs to artists, the Neil surname has left its mark on numerous fields of endeavour.

The coat of arms associated with the Neil surname typically features symbols such as lions, crosses, and crowns, reflecting themes of strength, faith, and nobility. These symbols may vary depending on the specific branch of the Neil family.

Overall, the surname Neil exemplifies the rich cultural tapestry of the British Isles, blending Gaelic, Norse, and other influences to create a distinctive and enduring family name.

There are approximately 7,204 people named Neil in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,306th most common surname in Britain. Around 111 in a million people in Britain are named Neil.

Surname type: From given name or forename

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

  • Alexander
  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • George
  • James
  • John
  • Robert
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Gillian
  • Helen
  • Jean
  • Jennifer
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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