There’s something fascinating about Irish last names – they don’t just tell a name; they tell a story. Some names, like Ó Ruairc (Rourke), are tied to warrior kings, while others, such as Ó Riaghail (Riall), hint at noble or scholarly backgrounds. Many have deep Gaelic origins, while others, like Mac Réamoinn (Raymond), reflect Ireland’s history of Norman influence. Each one carries a legacy, and some are just too good not to highlight.

With our structured collections of Irish first and last names, you’ll have plenty of inspiration – check out our feature on first names starting with R.

---

Authentic Irish Last Names that Start with R

⭐ Our Favourite: Rourke (Ó Ruairc)

Pronunciation: RURK
First recorded: 10th century
Meaning: Rourke, from “Ó Ruairc,” means “descendant of Ruairc,” an ancient Gaelic chieftain. The O’Rourkes ruled the kingdom of Breifne in what is now County Leitrim. They were a fiercely independent family, known for resisting Norman and later English rule, often engaging in battles to protect their land. Their legacy includes stories of defiance and rebellion, making this last name a symbol of strength in Irish history.
Why it’s our favourite: Few names capture the warrior spirit of old Ireland quite like Rourke. This was a family that held power for centuries, standing against invaders and maintaining their Gaelic identity even as Ireland changed around them. Their defiance, resilience, and leadership make this one of the most compelling Irish last names, rich with history and character.

☘️ Reilly (Ó Raghallaigh)

Pronunciation: RYE-lee
First recorded: 11th century
Region: County Cavan
Meaning: A powerful Gaelic last name, Reilly comes from the Irish “Ó Raghallaigh,” meaning “descendant of Raghallach.” The Reilly clan was a dominant force in Breifne (modern-day Cavan) and held vast territories. Known for their fierce resistance against Norman invaders, the Reillys remained influential into the 16th century. The name is still common in Ireland today. Famous bearers include John Boyle O’Reilly, a 19th-century poet and activist.

🔴 Redmond (Mac Réamoinn)

Pronunciation: RED-mund
First recorded: 13th century
Region: County Wexford
Meaning: A last name of Norman origin, Redmond derives from “Mac Réamoinn,” meaning “son of Raymond.” It is linked to the Anglo-Norman knight Raymond le Gros, who played a key role in the Norman invasion of Ireland. The Redmonds became a prominent Hiberno-Norman family in Wexford, where they established strongholds. The name later spread through Ireland, maintaining both Gaelic and Norman roots.

🎵 Rafferty (Ó Raifeartaigh)

Pronunciation: RAF-er-tee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: County Tyrone
Meaning: The name Rafferty comes from “Ó Raifeartaigh,” meaning “descendant of Raifeartach,” a name that signifies prosperity and abundance. The clan was known for its poets and musicians, making the name synonymous with creativity. The Raffertys were originally chiefs in Ulster and held high-ranking positions in Irish society. Contemporary bearers include Irish musician Gerry Rafferty.

🍂 Rowan (Ó Ruadháin)

Pronunciation: ROW-an
First recorded: 12th century
Region: County Galway
Meaning: The last name Rowan comes from “Ó Ruadháin,” meaning “descendant of Ruadhán” (a name derived from “ruadh,” meaning red-haired). This family was historically associated with clerical positions and scholarly roles in medieval Ireland. The Rowans were influential in Galway and Kilkenny. The name is linked to St. Ruadhán, an early Irish saint known for founding monastic settlements.

🔥 Rogan (Ó Ruadhagáin)

Pronunciation: ROH-gan
First recorded: 10th century
Region: County Donegal
Meaning: A last name derived from “Ó Ruadhagáin,” meaning “descendant of Ruadhagán” (a diminutive of “ruadh,” meaning red). The Rogans were a distinguished Ulster family, often connected to the O’Neills of Tyrone. Some branches migrated to Scotland in the 17th century. The name remains relatively rare but has notable figures such as Joe Rogan, the American podcaster and comedian.

🌾 Rudden (Ó Rodáin)

Pronunciation: RUD-en
First recorded: 16th century
Region: County Cavan
Meaning: Rudden derives from “Ó Rodáin,” meaning “descendant of Rodán,” a name likely linked to “rod,” meaning strong or hardy. This last name is deeply rooted in Cavan and Monaghan, where the family was known for its agricultural and warrior heritage. Although less common today, the Rudden name is still found in these regions, maintaining its Gaelic lineage.

🏇 Rooney (Ó Ruanaidh)

Pronunciation: ROO-nee
First recorded: 10th century
Region: County Down
Meaning: Rooney originates from “Ó Ruanaidh,” meaning “descendant of Ruanaidh” (a name meaning “champion”). The Rooneys were a distinguished family in Ulster, often involved in military and leadership roles. The last name remains well-known, with famous figures like footballer Wayne Rooney carrying the name. It remains particularly strong in counties Down and Fermanagh.

🌊 Rohan (Ó Ruacháin)

Pronunciation: RO-han
First recorded: 13th century
Region: County Cork
Meaning: Rohan comes from “Ó Ruacháin,” meaning “descendant of Ruachán,” a name possibly derived from “ruach,” meaning spirited or vigorous. This last name is historically associated with Munster, where the family played key roles in local governance. Though less common today, Rohan is sometimes confused with the Norman name “de Rochan.”

🛡️ Rannigan (Ó Reannacháin)

Pronunciation: RAN-i-gan
First recorded: 15th century
Region: County Leitrim
Meaning: Rannigan is derived from “Ó Reannacháin,” meaning “descendant of Reannachán,” a personal name likely linked to “reannach,” meaning sturdy or firm. This family was historically found in Leitrim and Roscommon, where they served as warriors and landowners. The last name remains relatively rare but still appears in pockets of western Ireland.

🎤 Raftery (Ó Reachtaire)

Pronunciation: RAF-ter-ee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: County Galway
Meaning: Derived from “Ó Reachtaire,” meaning “descendant of the steward or ruler,” the Raftery name was historically associated with high-status families responsible for governance or legal matters. The most famous bearer was Anthony Raftery, an 18th-century blind poet who became one of Ireland’s last great oral bards, preserving Gaelic poetry and folklore. The name is still prevalent in the west of Ireland, particularly in Galway and Mayo.

🏰 Raleigh (Ó Raghailligh)

Pronunciation: RAH-lee
First recorded: 11th century
Region: County Cavan
Meaning: Derived from “Ó Raghailligh,” meaning “descendant of Raghaillach,” the Raleigh family was a dominant Gaelic dynasty in Breifne, ruling vast lands in what is now Cavan and Leitrim. They resisted Norman expansion and maintained power well into the 16th century. The name has Norman associations, with figures such as Sir Walter Raleigh making it famous, though the Irish lineage is purely Gaelic.

🦅 Ryan (Ó Riain)

Pronunciation: RYE-an
First recorded: 11th century
Region: County Tipperary
Meaning: The Ryan last name comes from “Ó Riain,” meaning “descendant of Rían,” an ancient Gaelic personal name meaning “little king.” The Ryans were a warrior family in Munster, particularly in Tipperary and Limerick, where they served as chieftains and fought against Norman incursions. Today, Ryan is one of the most common last names in Ireland and has spread worldwide. Famous bearers include actor Meg Ryan and writer P.J. Ryan.

🔥 Rory (Ó Ruaidhrí)

Pronunciation: ROH-ree
First recorded: 12th century
Region: County Tyrone
Meaning: Rory is derived from “Ó Ruaidhrí,” meaning “descendant of Ruaidhrí” (meaning “red king” or “mighty king”). The name was popular among Irish royalty, with multiple kings of Connacht and Ulster bearing it. The most notable was Ruaidhrí Ua Conchobair, the last High King of Ireland before the Norman invasion. Today, Rory remains popular as both a last name and a first name.

🏆 Regan (Ó Riagáin)

Pronunciation: REE-gan
First recorded: 10th century
Region: County Meath
Meaning: The name Regan comes from “Ó Riagáin,” meaning “descendant of Riagán,” which likely refers to a noble or royal lineage. The Regan family was influential in Leinster, particularly in Meath and Offaly. The name gained international recognition through former U.S. President Ronald Reagan, whose ancestors were from Ballyporeen, County Tipperary. It remains a popular last name in Ireland and abroad.

🪨 Rock (Ó Ruacháin)

Pronunciation: ROCK
First recorded: 14th century
Region: County Galway
Meaning: The Rock last name, from “Ó Ruacháin,” likely comes from “ruach,” meaning “spirited” or “vigorous.” It may also relate to a rocky landscape where the family originated. The Rock family was traditionally found in western Ireland and had a history of serving as warriors and landholders. Though less common today, the name is still recognized in parts of Connacht.

🏹 Raffin (Ó Raithbheartaigh)

Pronunciation: RAF-in
First recorded: 15th century
Region: County Meath
Meaning: The last name Raffin, from “Ó Raithbheartaigh,” is associated with warriors and strategists, as “Raithbheartaigh” is thought to mean “warlike judgment.” The family historically held lands in Meath and Offaly, where they were known as chieftains. Though rare today, the name remains a part of Ireland’s rich heritage.

🌿 Ross (Ó Ros)

Pronunciation: ROSS
First recorded: 12th century
Region: County Galway
Meaning: The name Ross, from “Ó Ros,” means “descendant of Ros,” with “ros” meaning a promontory or wooded headland. This last name is associated with coastal and riverine areas, particularly in Connacht. Some branches of the Ross family were noted for their involvement in trade and maritime activities. The name has persisted over the centuries and remains a well-known last name in both Ireland and Scotland.

🔨 Rafter (Ó Reachtabhair)

Pronunciation: RAF-ter
First recorded: 14th century
Region: County Offaly
Meaning: Rafter is derived from “Ó Reachtabhair,” meaning “descendant of the wielder or law-giver.” Historically, the Rafter family played a role in administration and justice in medieval Gaelic society. The name is still commonly found in the midlands of Ireland. A notable bearer of the name is Pat Rafter, the Australian tennis player of Irish descent.

🏰 Rehill (Ó Rathaile)

Pronunciation: REE-hill
First recorded: 16th century
Region: County Monaghan
Meaning: Rehill, from “Ó Rathaile,” is thought to be derived from “ráth,” meaning fort or stronghold. This suggests that the family may have been associated with fortified settlements. Historically found in Monaghan and Armagh, the Rehill name is less common today but remains a marker of Gaelic heritage.

🏹 Rannigan (Ó Reannacháin)

Pronunciation: RAN-i-gan
First recorded: 15th century
Region: County Leitrim
Meaning: The Rannigan last name, from “Ó Reannacháin,” denotes a lineage of warriors or chieftains in the western regions of Ireland. The family was involved in territorial disputes and maintained influence in the local Gaelic order. Today, the name is still found in pockets of Connacht.

⚓ Rasdale (Ó Rásdáil)

Pronunciation: RAZ-dale
First recorded: 17th century
Region: County Cork
Meaning: Rasdale, from “Ó Rásdáil,” is a rare last name believed to be linked to Norse-Gaelic ancestry. The name is associated with coastal areas and may have originated from Viking settlers who integrated into Irish society. The Rasdale family historically engaged in seafaring and trade.

🌄 Ruddy (Ó Roideach)

Pronunciation: RUD-ee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: County Donegal
Meaning: The last name Ruddy comes from “Ó Roideach,” meaning “descendant of Roideach,” which likely refers to a hardy or steadfast person. The family was originally found in Donegal and played a role in maintaining Gaelic traditions. The name later spread due to emigration, particularly to the United States.

🏆 Rynne (Ó Rinn)

Pronunciation: RIN
First recorded: 12th century
Region: County Clare
Meaning: Rynne, from “Ó Rinn,” means “descendant of Rinn,” with “rinn” meaning point or tip, possibly referring to a spear or a geographical feature. The Rynne family was known for their resilience and presence in west Clare. Today, it is still a recognizable last name in Munster.

🏹 Riall (Ó Riaghail)

Pronunciation: RY-all
First recorded: 12th century
Region: County Tipperary
Meaning: Riall derives from “Ó Riaghail,” meaning “descendant of Riaghail,” a name linked to the Old Irish word “riaghail,” meaning “rule” or “law.” The Riall family was historically associated with leadership and governance, possibly serving as judges or administrators in Gaelic society. Though less common today, the name reflects a heritage of authority and order, with historical records suggesting connections to early monastic settlements where strict rules were followed.

Last Names with a Strong Irish Influence

☀️ Ray (Ó Ré)

Pronunciation: RAY
First recorded: 14th century
Region: County Kerry
Meaning: Ray, from “Ó Ré,” means “descendant of Ré,” a name possibly derived from the Irish word for “moon” or “kingdom.” Historically, it may have been used to signify a family connected to celestial or spiritual traditions. Though rare in Ireland, the last name has been anglicized from its Gaelic origins and is sometimes linked to English influence. It remains a last name and given name with strong associations with clarity, vision, and leadership.

🦭 Ronan (Ó Rónáin)

Pronunciation: ROH-nan
First recorded: 10th century
Region: County Offaly
Meaning: Ronan comes from “Ó Rónáin,” meaning “descendant of Rónán,” with “rón” translating to “seal.” The name suggests a connection to the sea or coastal life. St. Ronan was a well-known Irish saint, leading to the last name’s association with ecclesiastical heritage. The Ronans were traditionally settled in Leinster, where they played important roles in religious and scholarly life. Today, Ronan is more common as a first name but still appears as a last name.

⚔️ Rourke (Ó Ruairc)

Pronunciation: RURK
First recorded: 10th century
Region: County Leitrim
Meaning: The last name Rourke, from “Ó Ruairc,” means “descendant of Ruairc,” an ancient Gaelic king of Breifne. The O’Rourkes were one of the most powerful ruling families in medieval Ireland, frequently at war with the Normans and rival Gaelic clans. Their chieftains held strongholds in Leitrim and played key roles in Irish resistance movements. Today, the name is still found in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora.

🏆 Regan (Ó Riagáin)

Pronunciation: REE-gan
First recorded: 10th century
Region: County Meath
Meaning: Regan, from “Ó Riagáin,” means “descendant of Riagán,” a name that suggests royal or noble status. The Regans were prominent in Leinster, where they served as chieftains. Over time, the name became widespread across Ireland and later saw prominence in the United States, particularly through figures like Ronald Reagan, whose family had Irish ancestry. It remains a well-regarded last name worldwide.

🎭 Riley (Ó Raghallaigh)

Pronunciation: RYE-lee
First recorded: 11th century
Region: County Cavan
Meaning: Riley, from “Ó Raghallaigh,” means “descendant of Raghallach,” a name that likely signified a courageous or valiant warrior. The O’Reillys were one of the dominant families of Breifne, ruling vast territories in Cavan for centuries. They were known for their military strength and patronage of the arts. Today, Riley is popular both as a last name and a first name worldwide.

🏹 Raffin (Ó Raithbheartaigh)

Pronunciation: RAF-in
First recorded: 15th century
Region: County Meath
Meaning: Raffin comes from “Ó Raithbheartaigh,” meaning “descendant of Raithbheartaigh,” a name linked to strategy and warfare. The family historically resided in Meath and Offaly, where they played roles in regional conflicts. Though the last name has become rare, its history reflects Ireland’s medieval warrior culture.

🏇 Rowley (Ó Rothláin)

Pronunciation: ROW-lee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: County Westmeath
Meaning: Rowley, from “Ó Rothláin,” is thought to derive from “roth,” meaning wheel, possibly referencing charioteers or craftsmen. Historically, the Rowley family was associated with horsemanship and transport in medieval Ireland. The name later spread to England and America, retaining its Irish connections.

🌾 Rice (Ó Maolchraoibhe)

Pronunciation: RICE
First recorded: 12th century
Region: County Limerick
Meaning: Rice, from “Ó Maolchraoibhe,” means “descendant of Maolchraoibhe,” a name that translates to “servant of the sacred branch.” This suggests religious or druidic origins, possibly linked to ancient spiritual leaders. The Rice family was historically prominent in Limerick, and the name later became widespread in Wales and England before returning to Ireland. Today, it is common across the Irish diaspora.

⚔️ Rossiter (Mac Risach)

Pronunciation: ROSS-i-ter
First recorded: 13th century
Region: County Wexford
Meaning: Rossiter comes from “Mac Risach,” a last name with Norman origins that became fully integrated into Irish society. The name is believed to derive from “ris,” meaning brave or daring. The Rossiters arrived in Ireland following the Norman invasion and settled in Wexford, where they became an influential family. Known for their military involvement, they played a role in Ireland’s various conflicts over the centuries. The name remains common in the southeast of Ireland.

🌿 Radigan (Ó Radagáin)

Pronunciation: RAD-i-gan
First recorded: 15th century
Region: County Mayo
Meaning: Radigan, from “Ó Radagáin,” means “descendant of Radagán,” a personal name possibly linked to the Irish word for “spirited” or “energetic.” The Radigans were historically found in Connacht, where they were known for their involvement in local leadership and trade. Though rare today, the name persists in small pockets of western Ireland.

🏔️ Ridge (Ó Maoildeirg)

Pronunciation: RIDGE
First recorded: 12th century
Region: County Galway
Meaning: Ridge, from “Ó Maoildeirg,” means “descendant of Maoildeirg,” with “dearg” meaning red, possibly referring to a reddish landscape or complexion. The Ridge family was historically connected to Galway and Roscommon, where they played roles in farming and local governance. The name was later anglicized, with some branches adopting “Redmond” or “Reid.”

🦁 Rogers (Mac Ruaidhrí)

Pronunciation: ROH-jers
First recorded: 14th century
Region: County Cork
Meaning: Rogers, from “Mac Ruaidhrí,” means “son of Ruaidhrí,” a name meaning “red king” or “mighty ruler.” Originally of Gaelic origin, it later merged with the Anglo-Norman Rogers family, leading to its widespread use. Many Rogers families were involved in military and political affairs, and the name remains common across Ireland, Britain, and the U.S.

🛡️ Ralph (Mac Raghnaill)

Pronunciation: RALF
First recorded: 12th century
Region: County Longford
Meaning: Ralph, from “Mac Raghnaill,” means “son of Raghnaill,” a Norse-Gaelic name meaning “counsel power.” The Mac Raghnaills were an important family in Connacht, historically linked to the Uí Briúin dynasty. Over time, the name spread to England and Scotland but retained strong Irish connections, particularly in Longford and Roscommon.

🌊 Rainsford (Mac Raithne)

Pronunciation: RAYNS-ford
First recorded: 16th century
Region: County Laois
Meaning: Rainsford, from “Mac Raithne,” is a rare name likely derived from “raithneach,” meaning ferny or lush. The family was historically connected to the midlands of Ireland, with some members later migrating to England. The name suggests a link to landownership or specific geographic features.

🔴 Roe (Ó Ruaidh)

Pronunciation: ROH
First recorded: 13th century
Region: County Down
Meaning: Roe, from “Ó Ruaidh,” means “descendant of the red-haired one.” It was often used to describe individuals with a red complexion or hair. The Roe family was prominent in Ulster, serving as warriors and landowners. The name remains widespread in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora.

🛡️ Roland (Mac Raghnaill)

Pronunciation: ROH-land
First recorded: 12th century
Region: County Longford
Meaning: Roland, from “Mac Raghnaill,” means “son of Raghnaill,” a Norse-Gaelic name meaning “counsel power.” The Mac Raghnaill clan was prominent in Connacht, particularly in Longford and Roscommon, where they were known for their warrior tradition. The name was influenced by the Norman invasion, as Roland was a popular name among Norman knights. Over time, it merged into both Gaelic and Anglo-Norman lineages, maintaining strong ties to Irish history.

🌊 Rian (Ó Riain)

Pronunciation: REE-an
First recorded: 10th century
Region: County Tipperary
Meaning: Rian, from “Ó Riain,” means “descendant of Rían,” an ancient Gaelic personal name meaning “little king” or “illustrious one.” The O’Rians were a warrior family in Munster, particularly in Tipperary and Limerick. The name remains popular in modern Ireland as both a last name and a given name, often associated with leadership and nobility.

🦁 Russel (Ó Ruiséil)

Pronunciation: RUSS-ell
First recorded: 13th century
Region: County Cork
Meaning: Russel, from “Ó Ruiséil,” is an Irish adaptation of the Anglo-Norman last name Russell, originally meaning “red-haired.” The name arrived in Ireland with the Normans and integrated into Gaelic society. The Russels were known for their involvement in politics and trade, particularly in Munster. Many Russels emigrated during the 18th and 19th centuries, making it a common Irish diaspora name.

🏹 Rann (Ó Rannáin)

Pronunciation: RAN
First recorded: 14th century
Region: County Mayo
Meaning: Rann, from “Ó Rannáin,” means “descendant of Rannán,” possibly derived from “rann,” meaning verse or division. This suggests a historical connection to poets or scholars. The Rannáin family was recorded in western Ireland, particularly in Mayo, where they held minor nobility status. The name has since become rare but maintains historical significance.

🔥 Rogan (Ó Ruadhagáin)

Pronunciation: ROH-gan
First recorded: 10th century
Region: County Donegal
Meaning: Rogan, from “Ó Ruadhagáin,” means “descendant of Ruadhagán,” a diminutive of “ruadh,” meaning red-haired or fiery. The Rogans were a distinguished Ulster family, closely allied with the O’Neills of Tyrone. Some branches migrated to Scotland in the 17th century. The name is still found in pockets of Northern Ireland and beyond, with notable modern figures including American podcaster Joe Rogan.

⚔️ Raymond (Mac Réamoinn)

Pronunciation: RAY-mund
First recorded: 12th century
Region: County Wexford
Meaning: Raymond, from “Mac Réamoinn,” means “son of Réamonn,” a Norman-influenced Gaelic name meaning “mighty protector.” The last name became prominent in Ireland following the arrival of Raymond le Gros, one of the leading figures in the Norman invasion of Ireland. The Mac Réamoinn family became integrated into Irish society and played a significant role in Munster and Leinster.

🎭 Ryle (Ó Raghallaigh)

Pronunciation: RILE
First recorded: 11th century
Region: County Cavan
Meaning: Ryle, from “Ó Raghallaigh,” is an alternative anglicization of the powerful O’Reilly clan of Breifne. The name derives from Raghallach, a warrior chieftain known for his bravery in battle. The O’Reillys were one of the most influential Gaelic families in medieval Ireland, ruling over large parts of Cavan and surrounding areas. Today, Ryle is a rare but distinct last name.

🌿 Ruane (Ó Ruadháin)

Pronunciation: ROO-ane
First recorded: 12th century
Region: County Mayo
Meaning: Ruane, from “Ó Ruadháin,” means “descendant of Ruadhán,” derived from “ruadh,” meaning red-haired. The O’Ruadháins were a scholarly family, producing poets and historians in medieval Connacht. The name is strongly associated with County Mayo and remains a well-known last name in western Ireland.

🏔️ Roth (Ó Rothláin)

Pronunciation: ROTH
First recorded: 15th century
Region: County Kerry
Meaning: Roth, from “Ó Rothláin,” is believed to derive from “roth,” meaning wheel, possibly referring to a profession like wheelwrighting or transport. The Rothláin family was historically found in Kerry, where they were involved in trade and craftsmanship. Though less common today, the name persists in some Irish lineages.

🏇 Rossley (Mac Rothláin)

Pronunciation: ROSS-lee
First recorded: 16th century
Region: County Clare
Meaning: Rossley, from “Mac Rothláin,” is thought to have originated from “roth,” meaning wheel, possibly indicating a family history tied to horse-drawn transport or trade. The name is historically linked to the west of Ireland, particularly in Clare and Limerick. Over time, some Rossleys emigrated to England and America, where the name became more anglicized.

Rich in history and full of meaning, Irish names tell the story of Ireland’s past—browse our themed collections of first and last names to uncover the perfect one for you.