O'HALLORAN
Also recorded as O Halloran, O'halloran, Ohalloran
O'Halloran
Origin and Meaning
O'Halloran is an Irish surname of ancient Gaelic origin, derived from the Old Irish name "O'hAlghairbhain," meaning "descendant of Algharbhan." The name is believed to stem from the Gaelic word "algharbh," which translates to "rough" or "harsh."
History and Distribution
The O'Halloran surname is primarily associated with Ireland, particularly in the western counties of Galway and Clare. The O'Halloran clan originated in County Galway and played a significant role in the region's history, particularly during medieval times. The surname spread throughout Ireland and beyond due to emigration during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Notable Individuals
- William O'Halloran: An Irish lawyer and politician who served in the Irish Parliament in the 18th century.
- Kay O'Halloran: A contemporary Irish artist known for her vibrant paintings inspired by the landscapes of County Clare.
- Sean O'Halloran: A notable scholar and historian specializing in Irish genealogy and medieval Gaelic literature.
Coat of Arms
The O'Halloran family crest typically features symbols such as a lion rampant, a castle tower, and heraldic charges that reflect the clan's origins and values. The coat of arms serves as a symbolic representation of the family's heritage and lineage.
Modern Usage
Today, individuals bearing the surname O'Halloran can be found across the United Kingdom, Ireland, the United States, Canada, Australia, and other countries with significant Irish diaspora populations. The name continues to be passed down through generations, maintaining a connection to the rich history of the O'Halloran clan.
There are approximately 2,281 people named O'Halloran in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,779th most common surname in Britain. Around 35 in a million people in Britain are named O'Halloran.
Surname type: From name of parent
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
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Joseph
- Kieran
- Mark
- Michael
- Patrick
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Stephen
- Thomas
Female
- Ann
- Catherine
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Kathleen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan