There’s something special about Irish last names—each one carries a story, a lineage, and a connection to Ireland’s deep history. From warrior names like Haughey to poetic legacies like Higgins, these last names aren’t just identifiers; they’re echoes of the past. Some names have Viking roots, others were shaped by Gaelic lords, and a few, like Hackett, even arrived with the Normans before becoming distinctly Irish

Find the perfect Irish name with our extensive resources, including structured lists of first and last names and a dedicated feature on first names that start with H.

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Authentic Irish Last Names that Start with H

⭐ Our Favourite: Hynes (Ó hEidhin)

Pronunciation: HINES
First recorded: 10th century
Meaning: The Hynes family descends from the Uí Fiachrach, an ancient royal dynasty of Connacht. The name may stem from “eidhean,” meaning “ivy,” symbolizing endurance and deep roots. The Ó hEidhin sept ruled territories around Galway Bay and were known for their maritime prowess, often trading with Spain. Their influence extended into literature, politics, and landholding.
Why it’s our favourite: Hynes stands out as a last name with regal, poetic, and seafaring connections. Unlike some warrior-based names, this one carries a sense of resilience and quiet strength, like the ivy it may be named after. The fact that the Hynes clan ruled a coastal territory and maintained Gaelic traditions through centuries of change makes this name a compelling blend of history and endurance.

🏹 Halligan (Ó hAllagáin)

Pronunciation: HAL-ih-gan
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Leinster
Meaning: The Halligan name derives from “allach,” meaning “noble” or “proud.” The Ó hAllagáin family was historically associated with County Westmeath, where they were prominent landowners. The name is linked to Gaelic chiefs who played a role in resisting Norman encroachment. Over time, it spread throughout Ireland, particularly in Dublin. The Halligans were also noted in ecclesiastical records, with several priests bearing the name in medieval times.

🦅 Hanly (Ó hAinle)

Pronunciation: HAN-lee
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Roscommon
Meaning: The last name Hanly comes from “ainle,” meaning “beauty” or “valor.” The Ó hAinle clan were lords of the territory around Lough Ree in County Roscommon. They were a powerful sept under the O’Kellys and were known for their warriors and poets. The name has been carried by prominent figures, including 19th-century Irish nationalist John Hanly, who was involved in the struggle for land reform.

🌀 Hannigan (Ó hAnnagáin)

Pronunciation: HAN-ih-gan
First recorded: 16th century
Region: Donegal
Meaning: The last name Hannigan is believed to derive from “Annach,” meaning “swamp” or “marsh,” suggesting an ancestral connection to a wetland region. The Ó hAnnagáin family was historically found in Ulster, particularly in Donegal, where they were associated with the MacSweeneys, a powerful warrior family. Some members of this family emigrated to Scotland in the 18th century, where the name evolved into variations like Hannaghan.

🦌 Hart (Ó hAirt)

Pronunciation: HART
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Tyrone
Meaning: Derived from “art,” meaning “bear” or “hero,” the Ó hAirt clan was one of the most distinguished in medieval Ireland. They were chieftains in Ulster, particularly in County Tyrone, and later allied with the O’Neills. The name Hart has been associated with warriors, poets, and politicians throughout history. John Hart, a signatory of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, was of Irish descent.

⚔️ Harvey (Ó hAirmheadhaigh)

Pronunciation: HAR-vee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Ulster
Meaning: The last name Harvey comes from “airmheadhach,” meaning “praiseworthy” or “elevated.” It was a name given to noble families who held influence in medieval Ulster. The Ó hAirmheadhaigh family was closely linked to the McMahons of Monaghan and often served as advisors to Gaelic kings. In modern times, the name has been associated with actors and athletes, including comedian Steve Harvey, whose ancestry traces back to Ireland.

🔥 Hayes (Ó hAodha)

Pronunciation: HAYZ
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Munster
Meaning: From “Aodh,” meaning “fire,” the last name Hayes originated from descendants of Aodh, a common name among early Irish kings and saints. The Ó hAodha family held lands in Limerick and Cork, where they served as hereditary leaders. The name was later Anglicized as Hayes. It remains widespread in Munster and has notable bearers, such as Catherine Hayes, a famous 19th-century opera singer.

🏔️ Healy (Ó hÉilí)

Pronunciation: HEE-lee
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Connacht
Meaning: The Healy last name is derived from “ealadhach,” meaning “ingenious” or “clever.” The Ó hÉilí clan originated in Galway and Mayo, where they were known as learned scholars and poets. They were also involved in medicine and law, serving as physicians to noble families. Today, Healy remains a common name in Ireland, particularly in the west.

⚖️ Heffernan (Ó hIfearnáin)

Pronunciation: HEF-er-nan
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Tipperary
Meaning: The last name Heffernan comes from “ifearnán,” meaning “demon” or “fiery one,” possibly referring to a fierce warrior lineage. The Ó hIfearnáin family was associated with the ruling class in Munster, particularly under the O’Briens of Thomond. Some Heffernans were influential judges and poets. Today, the name is common in Tipperary and Clare.

🏰 Hennessy (Ó hAonghusa)

Pronunciation: HEN-uh-see
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Meath
Meaning: The name Hennessy comes from “Aonghus,” meaning “one strength” or “force.” The Ó hAonghusa family were originally based in Meath but later spread to Cork, where they became influential landowners. Richard Hennessy, an 18th-century Irishman, founded the world-famous Hennessy Cognac brand in France. The name remains strongly associated with Irish heritage and global business success.

🍀 Hickey (Ó hÍcidhe)

Pronunciation: HIK-ee
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Tipperary
Meaning: Derived from “ícidhe,” meaning “healer” or “physician,” the Hickey name was traditionally associated with medical professionals in medieval Ireland. The Ó hÍcidhe family served as hereditary physicians to the O’Briens of Thomond. The name is still found in Tipperary, where the Hickeys were historically respected for their knowledge of herbal medicine and surgery.

📜 Higgins (Ó hUiginn)

Pronunciation: HIG-ins
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Connacht
Meaning: The Higgins last name derives from “Uiginn,” meaning “Viking” or “descendant of a Norseman.” The Ó hUiginn clan was renowned for producing some of Ireland’s most distinguished poets, particularly in the bardic schools of Connacht. Many members served as historians and chroniclers for Gaelic lords. The name became widespread in Mayo and Galway, with notable figures like Bryan Higgins, an 18th-century chemist who made significant scientific contributions.

🏹 Hoban (Ó hÚbáin)

Pronunciation: HOE-ban
First recorded: 16th century
Region: Mayo
Meaning: The origin of Hoban is uncertain, but it is thought to derive from a diminutive of “Hubert,” meaning “bright mind” or “intellect.” The Ó hÚbáin family was primarily found in the west of Ireland, particularly in Mayo, where they were known as skilled craftsmen. The most famous bearer of this name is James Hoban, the Irish architect who designed the White House in Washington, D.C.

⚔️ Hogan (Ó hÓgáin)

Pronunciation: HOE-gan
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Tipperary
Meaning: Derived from “óg,” meaning “young” or “youthful,” the Ó hÓgáin clan was prominent in Munster. They were a warrior family closely associated with the O’Briens of Thomond. In the medieval period, they were known as strong supporters of the Gaelic resistance against Norman rule. The name remains common in Ireland, and famous bearers include Paul Hogan, the actor known for Crocodile Dundee.

🌿 Horan (Ó hÓráin)

Pronunciation: HOR-an
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Mayo
Meaning: The Horan last name comes from “ór,” meaning “gold,” possibly referring to wealth or nobility. The Ó hÓráin family was historically linked to County Mayo, where they were landowners and local leaders. In later centuries, some branches of the family became associated with the trade and merchant class, contributing to local economies. The name remains prevalent in the west of Ireland today.

🏰 Howley (Ó hUallaigh)

Pronunciation: HOW-lee
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Galway
Meaning: The last name Howley likely derives from “uallach,” meaning “proud” or “noble.” The Ó hUallaigh family was once an influential sept in Connacht, often holding positions as advisors and judges to the ruling Gaelic clans. The name later spread to Limerick, where members of the Howley family became influential in politics and academia. Archbishop Richard Howley was a prominent religious figure in the 19th century.

🐎 Haughey (Ó hEochaidh)

Pronunciation: HAW-hee
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Ulster
Meaning: From “Eochaidh,” meaning “horseman” or “warrior,” the Ó hEochaidh family was originally a powerful Ulster clan. They were known for their equestrian skills and served as cavalry leaders for various Gaelic kings. Over time, the name became more associated with statesmanship, with Charles Haughey serving as one of Ireland’s most notable Taoisigh (Prime Ministers) in the 20th century.

🛶 Hurley (Ó Muirthile)

Pronunciation: HUR-lee
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: The Hurley name is linked to “Muirthile,” meaning “sea warrior” or “descendant of the mariner.” The Ó Muirthile family had strong ties to Cork and Kerry, where they were known as skilled navigators and merchants. They played a role in Ireland’s maritime trade, particularly in fishing and shipbuilding. The name later became associated with hurling, Ireland’s ancient sport.

🏆 Hussey (Ó hEodhasa)

Pronunciation: HUS-see
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Meath
Meaning: Hussey is believed to be an Anglicized form of the Norman-French name “de Houssaye,” meaning “one from Houssaye” in France. The Ó hEodhasa family, however, was known in Ireland as a learned family of poets and historians. They were particularly influential in medieval literary circles, contributing to some of the most important Gaelic manuscripts.

🛡️ Houlahan (Ó hUallacháin)

Pronunciation: HOO-luh-han
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Limerick
Meaning: From “uallach,” meaning “proud” or “boastful,” the Ó hUallacháin family was an ancient Gaelic sept that held power in Munster. The name suggests a lineage of confident leaders, and the Houlahans were often involved in military and political affairs. Today, variations like O’Houlihan and Houlihan remain common in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora.

🦢 Hession (Ó hOisín)

Pronunciation: HESH-un
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Galway
Meaning: The last name Hession derives from “Oisín,” meaning “little deer,” a reference to the legendary warrior-poet Oisín of Irish mythology. The Ó hOisín family was historically linked to Galway, where they were scholars and poets. The name remains relatively rare but has deep historical and literary connections in Irish culture.

🌿 Haran (Ó hEaghráin)

Pronunciation: HAH-ran
First recorded: 15th century
Region: Sligo
Meaning: The last name Haran likely originates from “Eaghrán,” meaning “fearless” or “resolute.” The Ó hEaghráin family was historically found in Sligo and surrounding areas, where they were known as landowners and merchants. During the 17th century, some members of the family became involved in the Irish resistance against English rule. The name has since spread throughout Ireland, particularly in the west, and is sometimes associated with strong, independent-minded individuals.

⚔️ Haffey (Ó hAifeigh)

Pronunciation: HAF-ee
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Armagh
Meaning: The Haffey last name is believed to derive from “Aife,” an ancient warrior name in Irish mythology. The Ó hAifeigh family was closely associated with the Gaelic chieftains of Ulster, often serving as military leaders. Some historical records indicate that the family held land near Lough Neagh and played a role in defending the region against invaders. Over time, the name became more dispersed, but it remains most common in the north of Ireland.

🛡️ Holohan (Ó hUallacháin)

Pronunciation: HO-lo-han
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Kilkenny
Meaning: Derived from “uallach,” meaning “proud” or “mighty,” the Ó hUallacháin family was a significant Gaelic sept in Leinster, particularly in Kilkenny. They were known for their resilience in battles and their leadership roles in medieval Irish society. The name has maintained strong connections to Kilkenny and surrounding counties. In modern times, Holohans have been known in various fields, including politics and sports, continuing a legacy of prominence.

🏆 Hally (Ó Maolthamhnaigh)

Pronunciation: HAL-ee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Waterford
Meaning: This version of the Hally last name comes from “Maolthamhnaigh,” meaning “devotee of St. Tamhnaigh,” suggesting an early ecclesiastical or monastic connection. The Ó Maolthamhnaigh family was once influential in Waterford, where they were associated with religious and scholarly traditions. Some members of the family later became involved in trade and maritime industries. The name is still found in Waterford and nearby counties, often linked to those with strong ancestral ties to the region.

Last Names with a Strong Irish Influence

🦌 Harte (Ó hAirt)

Pronunciation: HART
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Tyrone
Meaning: Derived from “Art,” meaning “bear” or “champion,” the Ó hAirt family was a distinguished Gaelic clan in medieval Ulster. They were known for their warrior traditions and close alliances with the O’Neills. Over time, the name spread to Connacht, where some branches became poets and scholars. The last name has also been linked to Harte’s Island in Donegal, an area historically associated with the clan. Today, it remains a respected name in Ireland and among the diaspora.

⚔️ Harrigan (Ó hArragáin)

Pronunciation: HAR-ih-gan
First recorded: 15th century
Region: Clare
Meaning: Harrigan likely comes from “arrag,” meaning “attack” or “raid,” suggesting a warrior lineage. The Ó hArragáin family was historically involved in Munster conflicts, particularly against Norman invaders. Some branches became influential landowners, while others migrated to the U.S. during the 19th-century famine. Today, the name is especially common among Irish Americans.

🏹 Hanrahan (Ó hAnracháin)

Pronunciation: HAN-ruh-han
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Limerick
Meaning: From “anradh,” meaning “hero” or “warrior,” the Ó hAnracháin clan held lands in County Limerick. They were a branch of the O’Briens and served as military commanders during Ireland’s medieval conflicts. The name is associated with resilience, and one of the most famous bearers, Michael Hanrahan, was a key figure in the 1916 Easter Rising.

📜 Haverty (Ó hÁbhartaigh)

Pronunciation: HAV-er-tee
First recorded: 17th century
Region: Galway
Meaning: Haverty is believed to derive from “ábhartha,” meaning “abundant” or “prosperous.” The Ó hÁbhartaigh family was known for its contributions to Irish literature and historical writing, particularly in Galway. John Haverty, a 19th-century historian, documented Ireland’s struggles during British rule. The name is still most common in the west of Ireland.

🚢 Hewson (Ó hIomhair)

Pronunciation: HYOO-sun
First recorded: 16th century
Region: Dublin
Meaning: Hewson comes from “Iomhar,” the Irish form of the Norse name Ivar, meaning “warrior” or “seafarer.” The Ó hIomhair family had Viking roots and played a role in Dublin’s early development as a trading port. In modern times, the name is best known through Paul Hewson, the real name of Bono, the lead singer of U2.

🏰 Hoolihan (Ó hUallacháin)

Pronunciation: HOO-luh-han
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Limerick
Meaning: Derived from “uallach,” meaning “proud” or “mighty,” the Ó hUallacháin family was historically powerful in Munster. They held lands in Limerick and Waterford and were known for their involvement in Gaelic resistance movements. The name evolved into several variations, including Houlihan, and remains popular in Ireland and the U.S.

🔥 Hughes (Ó hAodha)

Pronunciation: HYOOZ
First recorded: 9th century
Region: Ulster
Meaning: Derived from “Aodh,” meaning “fire,” the Ó hAodha family was originally a widespread Gaelic dynasty found in Ulster, Connacht, and Leinster. They were known as warriors, clergy, and poets. The name later became common in Wales and England but remained a strong Irish last name, with figures like poet Ted Hughes and explorer Eóin Hughes carrying the name forward.

🏆 Hegarty (Ó hÉigeartaigh)

Pronunciation: HEG-ar-tee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: Hegarty comes from “éigeartach,” meaning “unjust” or “forceful,” which could suggest an early warrior heritage. The Ó hÉigeartaigh family was aligned with the powerful O’Donovans in Cork. Over the centuries, they became landowners and clergy. The name remains popular in Munster, and some branches of the family emigrated to Scotland and the U.S.

🍀 Harkin (Ó hEarcáin)

Pronunciation: HAR-kin
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Donegal
Meaning: Harkin is derived from “earc,” meaning “blood” or “reddish,” possibly referring to a distinctive appearance. The Ó hEarcáin family was a minor sept in Donegal, historically aligned with the O’Donnells. The name is still found in Ulster, particularly among those with deep ancestral ties to Gaelic Ireland.

🏰 Hall (Ó hAill)

Pronunciation: HAWL
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Leinster
Meaning: The last name Hall is an Anglicized form of “Ó hAill,” derived from “aill,” meaning “cliff” or “rock.” It was originally used to describe a family that lived near a prominent rock formation or fortress. The Ó hAill family was historically connected to the Leinster region, where they served as landholders and military figures. Over time, the name was absorbed into the broader Hall last name of Anglo-Norman origin but remains distinct in some Irish families today.

🔥 Hally (Ó Maolthamhnaigh)

Pronunciation: HAL-ee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Waterford
Meaning: Derived from “Maolthamhnaigh,” meaning “devotee of St. Tamhnaigh,” the Hally name is deeply connected to Waterford and Tipperary. The family is believed to have had monastic roots, with some members serving as scribes and religious leaders. The name later became associated with trade and landholding in Munster. Hally remains a recognized name in the southeast of Ireland.

📜 Hennelly (Ó hIonnghaile)

Pronunciation: HEN-uh-lee
First recorded: 15th century
Region: Mayo
Meaning: Hennelly comes from “Ionnghall,” meaning “foreign valor” or “battle-bringer,” likely a reference to Norse influence. The Ó hIonnghaile clan was prominent in Connacht, particularly in Mayo, where they were known as warriors and military leaders. The name is often linked to the era of Gaelic-Irish resistance against English rule. Today, Hennelly is still common in the west of Ireland.

⚔️ Halpin (Ó hAilpín)

Pronunciation: HAL-pin
First recorded: 16th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: The last name Halpin derives from “Ailpín,” a name linked to Scotland and Ireland, meaning “white” or “noble.” The Ó hAilpín family settled in Cork and became prominent traders and shipbuilders. In more recent history, Setanta Ó hAilpín, an Irish sportsman, carried the name into international recognition.

🏹 Harahan (Ó hAnracháin)

Pronunciation: HAR-uh-han
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Limerick
Meaning: The last name Harahan comes from “anradh,” meaning “warrior” or “hero.” The Ó hAnracháin family was historically associated with Munster, where they served as military leaders and landowners. Their influence was particularly strong in Limerick, where they were allies of the O’Briens. Today, the name is most commonly found in the U.S. among Irish descendants.

🏆 Hehir (Ó hAichir)

Pronunciation: HEH-hir
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Clare
Meaning: Hehir is believed to derive from “Aichir,” meaning “lord” or “chieftain.” The Ó hAichir family was a small but influential Gaelic sept in County Clare, known for their leadership in local politics and law. They maintained their status well into the medieval period, often serving as advisors to ruling families.

🏔️ Hally (Ó hAiligh)

Pronunciation: HAL-ee
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Tipperary
Meaning: The Hally last name from “Ó hAiligh” is thought to come from “ail,” meaning “rock” or “cliff,” indicating a family associated with strongholds or fortifications. The Ó hAiligh clan held lands in Munster and played a role in the defense of Gaelic territories. The name remains common in Tipperary and surrounding areas.

🌿 Hade (Ó hÉid)

Pronunciation: HADE
First recorded: 17th century
Region: Kilkenny
Meaning: The last name Hade is rare and believed to derive from “Éid,” meaning “pledge” or “oath.” The Ó hÉid family was historically linked to Kilkenny, where they were involved in land disputes and local governance. Some branches of the family emigrated during the Cromwellian era, leading to the name appearing in England and America.

🌊 Halley (Ó Maolthamhnaigh)

Pronunciation: HAL-ee
First recorded: 15th century
Region: Waterford
Meaning: This version of Halley, also from “Ó Maolthamhnaigh,” shares a religious origin, meaning “devotee of St. Tamhnaigh.” It was once associated with monastic settlements in Munster. Some members of the Halley family became prominent in seafaring and trade, particularly in Waterford, where they were involved in commerce with Spain.

🏰 Harnedy (Ó hAthairneadha)

Pronunciation: HAR-neh-dee
First recorded: 16th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: The last name Harnedy comes from “Athairneadha,” likely derived from “athair,” meaning “father” or “leader.” The Ó hAthairneadha family was traditionally found in Munster, particularly in Cork, where they were landowners and merchants. Some historians link the name to an ancient poet, Athairne, known for his wisdom in early Irish literature. Harnedy remains a rare but distinct name in southern Ireland.

⚔️ Haggerty (Ó hÉigeartaigh)

Pronunciation: HAG-er-tee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Donegal
Meaning: Haggerty is derived from “éigeartach,” meaning “unjust” or “forceful,” potentially signifying a warrior lineage. The Ó hÉigeartaigh clan was a notable Gaelic family in Donegal, often involved in military conflicts. Some members of the family later became poets and scholars. In modern times, the name has spread widely due to Irish emigration, particularly to the United States.

🛡️ Hurton (Ó hUartáin)

Pronunciation: HUR-tun
First recorded: 17th century
Region: Mayo
Meaning: The Hurton last name is believed to derive from “Uartáin,” a diminutive of “Uart,” meaning “noble” or “high-born.” The Ó hUartáin family was a minor but respected sept in Mayo, where they were known for their contributions to law and governance. The name is relatively rare today but has been preserved in historical records.

📜 Harrity (Ó hOireachtaigh)

Pronunciation: HAR-ih-tee
First recorded: 15th century
Region: Clare
Meaning: Harrity comes from “oireacht,” meaning “assembly” or “council,” suggesting that the Ó hOireachtaigh family was involved in local leadership or law-making. The last name is closely associated with the political and judicial roles held by Gaelic clans in medieval Ireland. The name has evolved into several variations, particularly in the U.S., where it is found among Irish-American families.

⚜️ Hackett (Haicéid – Anglicized Norman-Irish influence)

Pronunciation: HAK-it
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Tipperary
Meaning: Hackett is a Norman name that became Gaelicized in Ireland over centuries. It originates from the Old French “hacquet,” meaning “small hook” or “axe,” possibly referring to a warrior or weapon maker. The name was introduced to Ireland after the Norman invasion and became prominent in Tipperary, where the Hacketts were landowners and knights. Today, it remains a common last name with deep Irish connections.

Have you ever wondered about the meaning behind Irish names? Explore our detailed lists of first and last names to learn about their fascinating origins and historical significance.