O'RIORDAN

Also recorded as O Riordan, O' Riordan, O'riordan, Oriordan

O'Riordan

O'Riordan is a notable British surname with roots stretching back to Ireland. It is an anglicised form of the original Gaelic name "Ó Riordáin," meaning 'descendant of Riordán.' The name Riordán itself comes from the Old Irish personal name "Riuradán," which is composed of the elements "ri" meaning 'sovereign' and "urad" meaning 'unattainable.'

Origins

The O'Riordan surname is predominantly found in the historical province of Munster in Ireland, particularly in County Cork and County Kerry. Over time, many O'Riordan families migrated to various parts of the United Kingdom, contributing to the establishment of the name within British communities.

Notable Bearers

One of the most renowned individuals carrying the O'Riordan surname was Dolores O'Riordan (1971-2018). Dolores was an esteemed Irish musician, notably known as the lead vocalist of the massively successful rock band, The Cranberries. Her distinctive voice and captivating performances gained her international recognition and admiration.

Legacy

The O'Riordan name continues to be upheld by numerous families across the United Kingdom, some of whom have made significant contributions to various fields of endeavour. This surname serves as a testament to the enduring connection between Irish heritage and British society, reflecting the rich tapestry of cultural exchanges that have shaped the British Isles.

In summary, the O'Riordan surname holds a special place in British history, blending Irish ancestry with British identity, and its legacy endures through the achievements of its bearers in diverse fields.

There are approximately 1,532 people named O'Riordan in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,264th most common surname in Britain. Around 24 in a million people in Britain are named O'Riordan.

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

  • Clive
  • Daniel
  • David
  • James
  • Jamie
  • John
  • Michael
  • Patrick
  • Peter
  • Sean
  • Thomas
  • Timothy

Female

  • Ann
  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Katherine
  • Margaret
  • Marie
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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