Irish last names carry centuries of history, each name revealing a story of warriors, poets, seafarers, and noble families. Some, like Ó Lochlainn (Loughlin), trace back to Viking ancestry, while others, such as Ó Laoghaire (Lawless), hold ties to ancient Gaelic kings. Even names with Norman influence, like Ó Laitheasa (Lacey), have become deeply woven into Ireland’s identity. These last names tell us where we’ve come from and how families shaped Ireland’s past.

Explore our Irish name resources, where you’ll find themed lists of first and last names, plus a special focus on first names beginning with L.

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Authentic Irish Last Names that Start with L

⭐ Our Favourite: Loughlin (Ó Lochlainn)

Pronunciation: LOCK-lin
First recorded: 10th century
Meaning: Derived from Ó Lochlainn, meaning “descendant of Lochlainn,” which translates to “of the Norsemen” or “of the Vikings.” This name indicates descent from the Irish-Viking interactions of the early medieval period. The O’Loughlins were a prominent clan in Donegal and Clare, with connections to maritime trade and leadership among coastal settlements.
Why it’s our favourite: Few names capture Ireland’s layered history quite like Loughlin. It’s a reminder of Ireland’s Norse-Gaelic past, when Viking settlers and Irish chieftains clashed and later merged cultures. The O’Loughlins were powerful seafarers, making their mark in both commerce and battle. Today, the name stands as a bridge between Ireland’s Gaelic and Norse heritage, giving it a depth and intrigue that few last names can match.

🍀 Lafferty (Ó Laithbheartaigh)

Pronunciation: LAH-fer-tee
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Donegal
Meaning: Lafferty originates from the Irish Ó Laithbheartaigh, meaning “descendant of Laithbheartaigh.” The name is linked to an ancient warrior family of Donegal, traditionally associated with the Cenél Conaill, a powerful dynasty tracing back to Niall of the Nine Hostages. It suggests “half-sounding” or “eloquent speaker,” possibly denoting a renowned orator or leader. The Laffertys were known as chiefs of the Raphoe region in medieval Ireland, holding influence over local clans.

🌊 Lagan (Ó Leagáin)

Pronunciation: LAG-an
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Ulster
Meaning: The last name derives from Ó Leagáin, meaning “descendant of Leagán,” a personal name that may be linked to “a little hollow” or “small meadow.” It is prominent in Ulster, particularly Antrim and Derry. The name may have originated from families who settled along river valleys, particularly the River Lagan, which flows through Belfast. Some believe it denotes a person associated with wetland areas, making it a topographical last name.

🦅 Laherty (Ó Flaitheartaigh)

Pronunciation: LAH-er-tee
First recorded: 1096
Region: Galway
Meaning: From the powerful Ó Flaitheartaigh clan of Connacht, Laherty translates to “descendant of Flaitheartaigh,” meaning “noble ruler.” The family was a dominant force in medieval Galway, particularly around Lough Corrib. They descended from the ancient Uí Briúin dynasty, who claimed descent from the legendary High King Niall of the Nine Hostages. Notable bearers include Roderic O’Flaherty, a 17th-century historian who chronicled Irish history.

🎨 Lally (Ó Maolalaidh)

Pronunciation: LAL-ee
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Galway
Meaning: This last name comes from Ó Maolalaidh, meaning “descendant of Maolalaidh,” where “Maol” means “devotee” and “alaidh” may mean “art” or “noble one.” The Lallys were a respected family in Connacht, with a history tied to Gaelic nobility. The name gained prominence in France after the exile of some members following the Williamite Wars. Thomas Arthur Lally, a famous military commander, served in the French army and fought in India.

⚔️ Lanigan (Ó Lonagáin)

Pronunciation: LAN-i-gan
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Tipperary
Meaning: Derived from Ó Lonagáin, meaning “descendant of Lonagán,” which is believed to relate to “a fierce warrior” or “defender.” The name was widespread in Munster, particularly in Tipperary and Kilkenny. The Lanigans were a significant family in medieval Ireland, often involved in military service. Their name appears in records of conflicts between Gaelic clans and the Anglo-Normans.

🔥 Larkin (Ó Lorcáin)

Pronunciation: LAR-kin
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Offaly
Meaning: The name originates from Ó Lorcáin, meaning “descendant of Lorcán,” where “Lorcán” means “fierce” or “silent warrior.” Larkins were a well-known sept in Leinster and later spread to Clare and Galway. They were involved in local governance and Gaelic resistance against English rule. Famous bearers include Jim Larkin, a key figure in Irish labor rights and the founder of the Irish Transport and General Workers’ Union.

📜 Lavery (Ó Labhradha)

Pronunciation: LAV-er-ee
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Armagh
Meaning: Derived from Ó Labhradha, meaning “descendant of Labhradh,” with “Labhradh” linked to “eloquence” or “speaker.” The Laverys were a notable family in Ulster, historically associated with the ruling clans of Armagh. Sir John Lavery, a renowned Irish painter, carried the name into the artistic world, producing famous works of Irish landscapes and politics. The name reflects a tradition of leadership and storytelling.

🦷 Lawlor (Ó Leathlobhair)

Pronunciation: LAW-lor
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Laois
Meaning: From Ó Leathlobhair, meaning “descendant of Leathlobhar,” where “Leathlobhar” translates to “half-leper” or “partially sick.” This name suggests an ancient figure who may have survived illness or had a distinguishing feature. The Lawlors were a powerful clan in Leinster, particularly in Laois and Kildare, and played a key role in resisting English encroachment during the medieval period.

🛡️ Leahy (Ó Laochdha)

Pronunciation: LEE-hee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Kerry
Meaning: From Ó Laochdha, meaning “descendant of Laochdha,” where “Laochdha” translates to “heroic” or “warrior-like.” The Leahys were prominent in Kerry and Cork, known as warriors and defenders of Gaelic traditions. They held positions of influence during medieval times, often serving as advisors and soldiers for local lords. The name is still widespread in Munster today.

🌿 Leen (Ó Liatháin)

Pronunciation: LEEN
First recorded: 9th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: The last name comes from Ó Liatháin, meaning “descendant of Liathán,” a name linked to “grey” or “aged wisdom.” The O’Leen family were rulers in ancient Munster, particularly near the River Lee. They were known for their diplomatic ties with other Gaelic clans and their historical connections to the Eóganacht dynasty, who ruled much of southern Ireland.

📖 Lenehan (Ó Léanacháin)

Pronunciation: LEN-uh-han
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Westmeath
Meaning: Lenehan derives from Ó Léanacháin, meaning “descendant of Léanachán,” a diminutive of “Léanach,” which means “scribe” or “learned one.” The name suggests an ancestral connection to scholars or monastic scribes. Historically, the Lenehans were associated with medieval learning and record-keeping, possibly linked to the monastic settlements in the Midlands. The name is still prominent in parts of Leinster.

⛵ Lenihan (Ó Luingeacháin)

Pronunciation: LEN-uh-han
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Limerick
Meaning: From Ó Luingeacháin, meaning “descendant of Luingeachán,” where “Luingeach” relates to “ships” or “seafaring.” This suggests an ancestor involved in maritime trade or naval activity. Historically, the Lenihans were based in Munster, particularly in Limerick, where they may have engaged in river commerce along the Shannon. The name indicates a link to the medieval Irish maritime economy.

🌿 Lillis (Ó Maolalaidh)

Pronunciation: LIL-is
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Clare
Meaning: This last name originates from Ó Maolalaidh, meaning “descendant of Maolalaidh,” where “Maol” signifies “devotee” and “alaidh” may relate to nobility or guardianship. The Lillis family was historically tied to Clare, with possible links to monastic communities. The name has also been anglicized to Lally in some cases, though Lillis remains distinct in Munster.

🏰 Loftus (Ó Lachtnáin)

Pronunciation: LOF-tus
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Mayo
Meaning: From Ó Lachtnáin, meaning “descendant of Lachtnán,” where “Lachtnán” is derived from “lachtach,” meaning “gray” or “speckled.” The name was associated with chieftains in Connacht. The Loftus family later gained prominence in English-ruled Ireland, with Adam Loftus serving as Archbishop of Dublin in the 16th century. Though of Gaelic origin, the name became linked to the Anglo-Irish ascendancy.

⚒️ Loughman (Ó Lachtnáin)

Pronunciation: LOCK-man
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Kilkenny
Meaning: Another form of Ó Lachtnáin, meaning “descendant of Lachtnán.” The name was associated with medieval blacksmiths or metalworkers, as “Lachtnán” may have been used for a craftsman. The Loughmans were particularly known in Kilkenny, where they played a role in local industries and trade.

🍃 Loughrey (Ó Luachra)

Pronunciation: LOCK-ree
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Derry
Meaning: From Ó Luachra, meaning “descendant of Luachra,” where “Luachra” translates to “rushes” or “marshland.” The name likely originated from a family living near wetlands or boggy terrain. The Loughreys were known in Ulster, particularly in Derry and Tyrone, where they were involved in agricultural settlements.

🦌 Lunney (Ó Luinín)

Pronunciation: LUN-ee
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Cavan
Meaning: The last name Ó Luinín is derived from “Luinín,” a diminutive of “Luin,” meaning “blackbird” or “warrior.” The Lunney family was a sept of the Breifne region, historically serving as poets or guardians to the O’Reilly and O’Rourke clans. The name is still common in Cavan and Leitrim.

⚔️ Lyne (Ó Laighin)

Pronunciation: LINE
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Kerry
Meaning: From Ó Laighin, meaning “descendant of Laighin,” which is associated with warriors or spearmen. The Lyne family name is linked to the ancient Laigin people, an early tribal group in Leinster. The name later became common in Kerry, where the family had strong Gaelic roots and connections to the ruling clans of Munster.

🦁 Lyons (Ó Laighin)

Pronunciation: LIE-ons
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Galway
Meaning: Another derivation of Ó Laighin, meaning “descendant of Laighin.” The Lyons name became well-known in Connacht, where the family held land and influence. While linked to warriors, the Lyons last name was later associated with landowners and political figures. Famous bearers include Jack Lyons, an Irish businessman, and politicians from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Last Names with a Strong Irish Influence

🏰 Lacey (Ó Laitheasa)

Pronunciation: LAY-see
First recorded: 1172
Region: Wexford
Meaning: Lacey has Norman origins, deriving from de Laci, a family that arrived in Ireland with the Anglo-Norman invasion. The name comes from the town of Lassy in Normandy. Hugh de Lacy was granted the Lordship of Meath by Henry II in 1172 and played a major role in fortifying Norman rule in Ireland. Over time, Lacey became Gaelicized as Ó Laitheasa, integrating into Irish culture. The name is still found in Wexford, Meath, and Kilkenny.

🛡️ Laffan (Ó Láimhfhinn)

Pronunciation: LAF-an
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Tipperary
Meaning: Laffan derives from Ó Láimhfhinn, meaning “descendant of Láimhfhionn,” where “Láimhfhionn” translates to “fair hand” or “blessed hand.” This may have referred to a healer or someone known for craftsmanship. The Laffans were a well-regarded family in Munster, particularly in Tipperary. They played a role in medieval Irish politics, with members serving as clerics and warriors.

⚔️ Lane (Ó Laighin)

Pronunciation: LAYN
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: Lane is derived from Ó Laighin, meaning “descendant of Laighin,” which is linked to warriors or spearmen. The name was historically common in Munster, especially in Cork and Kerry, where it was associated with Gaelic warriors who resisted Anglo-Norman influence. The Lane name later became linked to landowners and merchants in the 18th century.

🍃 Lannan (Ó Lonáin)

Pronunciation: LAN-an
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Kilkenny
Meaning: The last name Ó Lonáin means “descendant of Lonán,” where “Lonán” is derived from “lon,” meaning “blackbird.” It likely originated as a poetic or bardic name. The Lannan family were associated with learning and poetry, particularly in Leinster. The name evolved into both Lannan and Lennon, remaining in use across Ireland.

⛵ Lavelle (Ó Maolfhábhail)

Pronunciation: la-VELL
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Mayo
Meaning: Lavelle comes from Ó Maolfhábhail, meaning “descendant of Maolfhábhail,” which may translate to “chief of the voyage” or “devotee of travel.” The Lavelle name is strongly associated with the west of Ireland, particularly in Mayo and Connemara. It may have originated from families involved in seafaring or trade along the western coastline.

🏹 Lawless (Ó Laoghaire)

Pronunciation: LAW-less
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Kilkenny
Meaning: Lawless has both Gaelic and Norman roots. Ó Laoghaire means “descendant of Laoghaire,” a name meaning “calf-herder” or “prince.” However, the Lawless family also descends from the Norman de Laweleis family, who settled in Kilkenny. The last name evolved to symbolize independence and defiance, fitting its later associations with rebellion and political activism.

📖 Lee (Ó Laoidhigh)

Pronunciation: LEE
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: Derived from Ó Laoidhigh, meaning “descendant of Laoidhigh,” where “Laoidh” means “poem” or “song.” The name was historically associated with poets and storytellers. The Lees were known for their roles in preserving Irish history through oral tradition. The name is still common in Cork and Limerick.

🌊 Lehane (Ó Liatháin)

Pronunciation: le-HANE
First recorded: 9th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: Ó Liatháin means “descendant of Liathán,” a name derived from “liath,” meaning “grey” or “aged wisdom.” The Lehane family were rulers of a territory in Cork and held influence in Munster. The name suggests wisdom or leadership, and it remains common in Cork today.

🎼 Lennon (Ó Leannáin)

Pronunciation: LEN-un
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Galway
Meaning: Ó Leannáin means “descendant of Leannán,” derived from leannán, meaning “lover” or “sweetheart.” The name was originally associated with poets and musicians in Gaelic Ireland. The Lennons were historically found in Galway and Offaly, where they served as hereditary bards and scholars. The most famous bearer of the name is John Lennon of The Beatles, whose ancestry traces back to County Down.

🌿 Liddy (Ó Lideadha)

Pronunciation: LID-ee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Clare
Meaning: Ó Lideadha comes from lideadh, meaning “smooth” or “gentle,” possibly referring to a peaceful or diplomatic ancestor. The Liddy name is strongly associated with County Clare, where it was common among scholars and landowners. The Liddys played a role in preserving Irish culture and history through their involvement in literature and the arts.

🏹 Lohan (Ó Leocháin)

Pronunciation: LO-han
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Roscommon
Meaning: The last name Ó Leocháin derives from leochán, meaning “little warrior” or “fierce one.” It suggests a family known for their strength in battle. The Lohans were originally found in Connacht, particularly in Roscommon and Galway. The name remains common in Ireland today and gained international recognition through actress Lindsay Lohan.

⛵ Long (Ó Longaigh)

Pronunciation: LONG
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: Ó Longaigh translates to “descendant of Longach,” meaning “seafarer” or “shipbuilder.” The name suggests a family with strong maritime ties, possibly traders or fishermen. The Long name is most common in Cork and Kerry, where families were involved in both fishing and shipbuilding. It became anglicized early due to its straightforward translation.

📜 Lowry (Ó Labhradha)

Pronunciation: LOW-ree
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Tyrone
Meaning: Derived from Ó Labhradha, meaning “descendant of Labhradh,” which translates to “spokesman” or “eloquent one.” The name was associated with learned families and orators. The Lowrys were influential in Ulster, particularly in Tyrone, and later spread to Scotland. The name remains prominent in both Ireland and Scottish-Irish diaspora communities.

🦁 Lucey (Ó Luasaigh)

Pronunciation: LOO-see
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: The name Ó Luasaigh derives from luasach, meaning “swift” or “active.” It may have referred to a quick-moving warrior or messenger. The Lucey family was based in Cork and Kerry, where they were part of the ruling Gaelic clans. The name has remained popular in Munster, especially in Cork.

⚔️ Lundy (Ó Londaí)

Pronunciation: LUN-dee
First recorded: 15th century
Region: Donegal
Meaning: The last name Ó Londaí is believed to derive from londa, meaning “bold” or “fierce.” It was historically associated with warriors or military leaders in Donegal. The name gained notoriety due to Colonel Robert Lundy, the governor of Derry during the Siege of 1689, whose betrayal of the city led to “Lundy” becoming synonymous with treachery among Unionists.

🚢 Lynch (Ó Loingsigh)

Pronunciation: LINCH
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Galway
Meaning: Ó Loingsigh means “descendant of Loingseach,” which translates to “mariner” or “ship warrior.” The Lynch family was one of the 14 Tribes of Galway, a powerful group of merchant families who dominated trade in medieval Ireland. They were instrumental in Galway’s prosperity, and many Lynches held positions as mayors of the city. The name is still widespread in Ireland today.

Many Irish names have deep connections to folklore, mythology, and ancient traditions, so explore our themed collections to uncover the fascinating stories behind them.