RAFFERTY
Rafferty
Rafferty is an English and Scottish surname of Gaelic origin, derived from the Irish Gaelic name O'Rathbheartaigh. The surname Rafferty is predominantly found in Ireland, particularly in County Donegal and throughout Ulster. It is also present in Scotland and other parts of the United Kingdom as a result of historical migration patterns.
The Gaelic name O'Rathbheartaigh translates to "son of Rathbheartach," with "Rathbheartach" meaning 'prosperity wielder' in Gaelic. The Rafferty surname is believed to have originated from a powerful and influential individual within Gaelic society.
The Rafferty surname has several spelling variations, including Raffarty, Raffardie, and Raffathery, due to the phonetic challenges of translating Gaelic names into English.
The Rafferty name has been borne by notable figures in British and Irish history, contributing to various fields such as literature, politics, and the arts. The surname continues to be passed down through generations, maintaining its cultural and historical significance within the British Isles.
Overall, the surname Rafferty carries a rich heritage and serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Gaelic influences in British and Irish society.
There are approximately 6,726 people named Rafferty in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,398th most common surname in Britain. Around 103 in a million people in Britain are named Rafferty.
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
- Brian
- David
- James
- John
- Kevin
- Michael
- Patrick
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
- Thomas
Female
- Anne
- Catherine
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah