Hereditary surnames became commonplace in Ireland long before surnames began to surface in other areas of Europe.

"By Mac of O' you'll always know true Irishmen they say.  For if they lack the O' or Mac no Irishmen are they."

Generally speaking the Ua or O' surnames were established first.  As the families or clanns became larger, divisions used the prefix Mac in front of their father's name.

Ua of O' designates "decendant of" and Mac, Mc, or Ma designates a "son of".  Ni or Nee designates "daughter of".

One of the most valuable reference books on Gaelic names is "Irish Names & Surnames" by the Reverend Patrick Woulfe.

If you would like to see the various names based on the Gaelic word Tighearna view the pages in the Annals area.

Many of the Irish surname books give short and concise information about various common names, but nothing compares to viewing the ancient records for yourself and determining the places of origin, popularity, and variations of your surname.

I hope you enjoy your visit...