Sherridan

Sherridan is a patronymic surname of British origin, derived from the Old Gaelic personal name "Siardán", which means "descendant of Siard". The name has been recorded with various spelling variations over the centuries, including Sheridan, Sheredan, Sheriddan, and more.

Origins

The surname Sherridan is predominantly found in Ireland and Scotland, where it is believed to have been introduced by Gaelic settlers. The name is associated with several notable individuals, including the acclaimed Irish playwright and politician Richard Brinsley Sheridan (1751–1816), whose family hailed from County Cork, Ireland.

Meaning

The name "Siardán" is thought to be derived from the Old Gaelic word "siar", meaning "to wander", combined with the diminutive suffix "-án". As such, Sherridan could be interpreted to mean "little wanderer" or "small traveller".

Variants

As is common with many surnames, Sherridan has evolved into various forms and spellings over time. Some of the most widespread variants include Sheridan, Sheriden, and Sheridon. These variations often arose due to factors such as regional accents, clerical errors, or anglicisation of the original Gaelic form.

Distribution

The surname Sherridan is relatively rare, with the majority of individuals bearing this name residing in the United Kingdom, particularly in Ireland and Scotland. However, due to historical migration patterns, Sherridan can also be found in other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Notable Bearers

Among the notable bearers of the surname Sherridan, Richard Brinsley Sheridan stands out as a prominent figure in British and Irish history. Known for his wit, eloquence, and literary achievements, he made significant contributions to both the theatrical world and politics of his time.

In summary, the surname Sherridan holds a rich history rooted in Gaelic origins, with connections to renowned figures and a presence in various English-speaking regions around the globe.

There are approximately 58 people named Sherridan in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Sherridan.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Adam
  • Paul

Female

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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