Surname Sullivan - Meaning and Origin

Unveiling Roots: How an iGENEA DNA Test Redefined My Understanding of My Sullivan Ancestors

An iGENEA DNA testing led to unexpectedly significant revelations about my Sullivan heritage, instigating an adventure into my past and self, uncovering tales of Scandinavia and transatlantic migration.

U. Sullivan

Sullivan: What does the surname Sullivan mean?

The surname Sullivan is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic "Ó Súilleabháin," which means "descendant of Súilleabhán." The name is broken down into two parts: 'súil,' meaning "eye", and 'dubh,' meaning "black". Thus, Súilleabhán approximately translates to "little dark-eyed one." The Sullivan family has a rich history going back to ancient times and was known as one of the principal families in Ireland. Their traditional territory was in the southwestern part of the country, primarily in County Cork and County Kerry. This name is considered one of the most popular surnames in Ireland. However, due to Irish emigration, it is also common to find the Sullivan name (and its derivatives such as O'Sullivan or just Sully) in places like the United States, Canada, Australia, and other countries around the world.

Famous people with the name Sullivan

• Ed Sullivan (1901-1974): Was an American television personality, producer and media mogul known as the "The Great Stone Face" and best remembered as the host of the TV variety program The Ed Sullivan Show.
• Cameron Sullivan (b.1992): THe former Missouri State Senator, He narrowly lost the race for nominee for Lieutenant Governor in 2020.
• Gail Sullivan (b.1951): Most notable for playing the role of Becca on the hit NBC sitcom Friends.
• Matthew Sullivan (b.1966): A Pulitzer Prize-winning American author, known for his debut novel, Midwives, which won the 1998 PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction.
• Andrew Sullivan (b.1963): A British-born American author, political commentator, and a former editor-in-chief of The Atlantic.
• Thelma Sullivan (b.1906): An American silent film actress active in the 1920s.
• Patrick Sullivan (b.1984): An American professional ice hockey defenseman who played for the Tampa Bay Lightning.
• Kate Sullivan (b.1978): A journalist and broadcast news anchor for CBS News in New York City.
• John Patrick Sullivan (b.1956): An American physician, entrepreneur, and political figure who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from Wyoming.
• Eamonn Sullivan (b.1980): An Australian swimmer who won 3 World Championship medals and 2 Olympic medals for both the 100m and 200m freestyle events.

Other surnames

Sullivant