Surname Larkin - Meaning and Origin

Exploring the Larkin Surname: My Revelation Journey with the iGENEA DNA Test

Through the iGENEA DNA test, I was able to unearth the rich history behind my surname, Larkin, traced back to the Irish ‘fierce’. The platform also allowed connection with other Larkins around the globe, fostering a community built on shared lineage.

X. Larkin

Larkin: What does the surname Larkin mean?

The surname Larkin is of Irish origin, derived from the Irish O’Lorcain, meaning "descendant of Lorcán". Lorcán is a personal name composed of the Gaelic elements "lorc" meaning "fierce" and a diminutive suffix "án". Therefore, the surname can be interpreted to mean "little fierce one". The Larkin family was originally part of the ancient Dal Cais, located in County Clare, where they held significant estates. From the 13th century onwards, branches of the Larkin family established themselves in counties Tipperary and Leix. Despite the scattering of the Larkin family due to widespread dispossession, the name remains common in these traditional territories today. Many Larkins were also part of the significant Irish diaspora due to poverty and political issues, spreading the name to other parts of the world. The Larkin surname can be found in various forms such as O'Larkin, Larkins, or Lorkin.

Larkin: Where does the name Larkin come from?

The surname Larkin is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic term "larcán" meaning "rough" or "fierce". The name can also be linked to the Norman French diminutive for "lark", a popular medieval first name. There were two separate clans in Ireland originally having the name Larkin, one in County Galway and the other in County Meath.

In terms of popularity, Larkin is a relatively common surname in Ireland due to its historical significance and regional concentrations. The name also spread throughout the UK, Australia, Canada, and the United States due to Irish migration during periods such as the Great Famine in the 19th Century. In contemporary times, the name can be found commonly spread in these regions, with significant populations in the United States and Ireland. While the presence of the name has dispersed internationally, its roots firmly remain in Irish history and culture.

Variations of the surname Larkin

The surname Larkin has variants and spellings that resemble it, mostly originating from the Gaelic name O’Lorcáin which means “descendant of a fierce one”.

Some of the alternative spellings include Lorkin, Lorking, Larkins, Larcom, Larken, Larkman, Lorken, Larking. The addition of an "s" at the end, such as in Larkins, is often used to signify "son of Larkin".

Similar sounding surnames with a shared origin include Lorcan, Lorchain, Larchin, and Lorchan. In some cases, there might be regional or ethnic variations in spelling due to language and pronunciation differences, as seen in variations like Lorcain, Lorcán and O'Lorcain.

Occasionally, the prefix "O" can be dropped, leading to versions such as Lorcan without the familial implication. In addition, some bearers of the name might Anglicize it, leading to surnames such as Lawrence or Laurence, derived from Larkin.

The surname has diverse forms in other languages too— in France, it can be Larcin, while in Italy it could be Larcini.

It's also worth noting that phonetic similarities can occasionally cause confusion, leading to erroneous alternative spellings or misinterpretations. For example, Larkham or Larkum may seem related to Larkin but they are distinct surnames with different origins.

Famous people with the name Larkin

• Philip Larkin: He was an English poet, novelist, and librarian.
• Tommy Larkin: He was an Irish trade union leader and politician.
• John Larkin: He was an American actor known for his stage and film work.
• Big Jim Larkin: He was a leading figure in the Irish labor movement and a prominent socialist.
• Lenny Larkin: He was a character in the soap opera, 'The Archers.'
• James Larkin: He was an Irish activist and teacher known for his work in human rights.
• Bob Larkin: He is an American artist mainly recognized for his cover art for various comic books.
• Andrew Larkin: He was an American composer and professor of music.
• Colleen Larkin: She is an American stage and screen actress.
• Sharon Larkin: She is a well-known Australian environmental lawyer.
• Dylan Larkin: He is a professional American ice hockey player.
• John A. Larkin: He was a U.S. Representative from California.
• Arthur Larkin: He was an English footballer who played as a winger.
• Chris Larkin: He is an English actor.

Other surnames

LarkingLarkins