Surname Irish - Meaning and Origin

An Unexpected Journey: How the iGENEA DNA Test Redefined My Irish Ancestry and Identity

Investing in the iGENEA DNA test to trace my familial roots, I told myself that it was just for a lark. However, the revealing results unexpectedly transformed my understanding of my family name 'Irish,' unlocking an unforeseen lineage that offered a fresh perspective on my identity.

M. Irish

Irish: What does the surname Irish mean?

The last name Irish is of Anglo-Saxon origin, meaning “son or descendant of Iorwerth”. Iorwerth was an Old Welsh personal name, derived from the elements “iou” (lord) and “berth” (handsome). It is believed that many people in the British Isles with this surname have roots in Ireland, though the surname could also have originated in England, Scotland, and Wales.

The word “Irish” can also be used in reference to the Celtic people of Ireland. This is because Irish culture and traditions were passed down through generations, with many taking on their ancestor’s name, or a variation of it. The most common Irish surnames today have their roots in Gaelic names, those of old noble families and clans.

Today, the last name Irish carries a sense of heritage and tradition. It is a reminder of the deep ties that bind us to one another and our common ancestry. The name Irish is associated with notions of loyalty, family, strength, and faith — all valuable qualities in life.

Irish: Where does the name Irish come from?

The Irish diaspora is spread out over the world, with many families leaving Ireland over the years. The Irish last name is still common in many countries today, including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. In the United States, the last name Irish is one of the most common in the nation, ranked 118th in terms of most common family name by the US Census. In other English-speaking countries, the Irish last name is also relatively common. In the UK, Irish is the 28th most popular last name, while in New Zealand, it is the 48th most popular.

In terms of Irish culture, the Irish last name is still strong and celebrated. Last names with Irish roots are often seen as more respectful and positive in the Irish community, and many Irish citizens are proud of their heritage and their family’s name. Irish last names can be categorized into different types, each with their own unique names and meanings, with some of the most popular being O'Brien, Murphy, Kelly, and Sullivan.

Overall, the Irish last name is still common and well-regarded today, with millions of individuals tracing their heritage back to the Emerald Isle.

Variations of the surname Irish

The surnames Irish and variants are derived from the ancient Gaelic personal name O’hEireamhoin or O’hIrigh which means descendant of the heir. This surname was common in parts of County Clare, Ireland.

Variants of Irish include:

1. O’Heron: This was derived from the diminutive form O’hEireamhoing, a Gaelic patronymic form of the name.

2. O’Heery: Another variant of the name, was derived from the restricted favouring of the anglicised form.

3. Irvin: The name has been anglicised to Irvin, which was also derived from the name O’hEireamhoin.

4. Erwin: This surname is also an anglicised version of Irish.

5. Ervin: another Anglicised derivative of Irish.

6. Hirons: also derived from the name O’hEireamhoin.

7. Heeron: derived from the Gaelic diminutive ‘hEireamhoing’.

8. Erwin: A variant of the name which is frequently found in England and Scotland.

9. Hirens: derived from the Gaelic patronymic form of the name.

10. Urwin: derived from a combination of the Gaelic and English forms of the name Irish.

The surnames Irish and their variants have been found in many parts of the world with varying spellings, all derived from a common Irish roots. Today these surnames are still used in Ireland and some other countries around the world.

Famous people with the name Irish

• Jamie Irish, an American writer and poet
• Danny Irish, an American musician and composer
• Eddie Irish, an American actor
• Tom Irish, an American actor and TV personality
• Ryan Irish, an American announcer and sports radio host
• Bill Irish, an American wildlife photographer
• Joe Irish, an American screenwriter, film producer, and television director
• Reggie Irish, an American former NFL running back
• Alison Irish, an American artist
• Robert Irish, an Australian Olympic rower
• Wayne Irish, an American jazz bass player
• Bree Irish, an American electronic music producer
• Kasey Irish, an American musician
• Kory Irish, an American actor, singer, and songwriter
• Sylvester Irish, an American Major League Baseball Pitcher
• Connor Irish, an American professional basketball player
• Doug Irish, an American film and theater producer
• Zoe Irish, an American actress
• Roger Irish, an American documentary filmmaker
• Rod Irish, an Australian former rugby league footballer
• Kawika Irish, an American college football head coach
• Alex Irish, an American soccer player
• Tony Irish, an American footballer
• T.J. Irish, an American former stock car driver
• Kristine Irish, an American Olympic hurdler

Other surnames

Irissarri