Surname Lynch - Meaning and Origin
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Discovering the Unexpected: An iGENEA DNA Test Journey Into the Lynch Lineage
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S. Lynch
read moreLynch: What does the surname Lynch mean?
The surname Lynch has an Irish origin and derives from the Gaelic term "Loingseach," meaning "mariner" or "seafarer." It was often used to refer to individuals or families involved in seafaring or maritime activities. The Lynch family was among the most prominent in Galway, Ireland throughout medieval times and multiple generations have served as mayors of Galway. The name is also popular across the Atlantic, particularly in the United States. Over time, it has evolved to simply be a family name passed down through generations, and no longer directly implies a maritime occupation. Although the name Lynch has unfortunately become associated with an act of mob justice, particularly in America, this association has no relation to those bearing Lynch as a surname.
Order DNA origin analysisLynch: Where does the name Lynch come from?
The surname Lynch is of Irish origin derived from the Gaelic term "Loingseach" which, when translated, means ‘mariner’ or ‘seafarer’. It is considered one of the oldest surnames in Ireland, closely associated primarily with two distinct families, one in County Galway, and the other in County Clare.
The Lynch family of Galway was a part of the Tribes of Galway, 14 merchant families that dominated the political, commercial, and social life of the city of Galway, Ireland between the mid-13th and late 19th centuries. The "de" prefix was used by them until Ireland broke away from Britain in the 20th century.
The other family was known as the "Lynch's of Clare" that descended from Lochlann. The name got anglicized over the years to Lynch.
As of today, this surname is commonly found in the United States,United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia and Canada. Over time though, people with the Lynch surname have spread all across the globe, due to emigration and other factors. It remains particularly associated with those of Irish descent.
Variations of the surname Lynch
The surname Lynch has Gaelic origins, derived from the term "Loingseach," which means 'mariner' or 'seaman'. Over the years, it has been changed and modified resulting in a variety of spellings and variations. Some versions include Linch, Linche, Lynchey, Lynchy, Lyntch and Linskey.
The surname Lynch is also prevalent in Ireland, where it originated from two distinct clans - the Lynch family in Galway and the Lynch family in County Cavan. Therefore, some geographical variants are also linked to these names, such as de Lench, Lynch of Cavan, and Lynch of Galway. Additionally, it is sometimes anglicized as Lindsey, a form taken from its literal meaning 'from the Island of the ships'.
In some cases, the surname may have been Americanized or adapted to other cultures leading to versions like Linch, Lindz, or even Lync. It should be noted that these variations mostly convey the same original Gaelic meaning.
However, despite the many variants and spellings associated with the surname Lynch, the standard 'Lynch' remains the most common and widely used version across English-speaking countries.
Famous people with the name Lynch
- David Lynch: a renowned film director, screenwriter, producer, televison director, visual artist, musician and occasional actor.
- Kelly Lynch: an American actress, model and producer.
- Megyn Kelly: an American journalist, political commentator, and former corporate defense attorney.
- Bill Lynch: a former American football running back and coach.
- Charlie Lynch: a former soldier, mayor, and California State Assemblymember.
- Burce Lynch: a former American football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for the San Francisco 49ers and Pittsburgh Steelers.
- Marion Lynch: a former hurler from County Kerry, Ireland.
- Tony Lynch: an English footballer who currently plays for Forest Green Rovers.
- Seán Lynch: an Irish politician and solicitor.
- Tom Lynch: an All-Australian forward who currently plays for the Adelaide Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL).