Ireland’s last names are steeped in history, from the poetic Sheerin to the warrior-like Sloane. Some arrived with the Normans, like Sarsfield, while others, like Ó Súilleabháin, are purely Gaelic, shaped by centuries of storytelling and struggle. These names carry the legacy of Ireland’s chieftains, scholars, and rebels.

From themed lists of Irish first and last names to deep dives into specific letters, our site has it all – why not explore our selection of names beginning with S.

---

Authentic Irish Last Names that Start with S

⭐ Our Favourite: Sweeney (Mac Suibhne)

Pronunciation: SWEE-nee
First recorded: 13th century
Meaning: Originally a Scottish-Gaelic last name, Sweeney (Mac Suibhne) arrived in Ireland when the gallowglass mercenaries—elite Norse-Gaelic warriors—settled in Donegal. The name Suibhne means “pleasant” or “well-going,” though the family was anything but peaceful. The Mac Sweeneys became legendary military leaders, serving the O’Donnells in their battles against English forces. Their reputation as fierce fighters ensured their place in Irish history.
Why it’s our favourite: Sweeney perfectly embodies Ireland’s rich mix of cultures. It’s a Gaelic name with Norse-Scottish roots, tied to one of Ireland’s most feared warrior groups. The contrast between its meaning and its actual history makes it even more fascinating. From battlefield legends to its enduring presence in Irish storytelling, it’s a name with real weight behind it.

🎓 Scully (Ó Scolaidhe)

Pronunciation: SKUL-ee
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Tipperary
Meaning: Derived from the Irish word scolaí, meaning “scholar” or “student,” the Scully name was often associated with learned families, particularly those involved in teaching and the Church. The name became prominent in Munster, where Scullys served as hereditary scholars. The family later became landowners, particularly in County Tipperary. Notable bearers include Vincent Scully, a 19th-century Irish politician and writer.

🕊️ Sheahan (Ó Síocháin)

Pronunciation: SHEE-an
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Limerick
Meaning: Originating from the Irish word síocháin, meaning “peace,” this last name was given to a family known for their diplomacy and efforts to maintain harmony in their communities. The Sheahans were historically found in Limerick and Cork, where they were involved in local governance. The name remains common in Munster today, with several prominent Sheahans making their mark in politics and the arts.

☘️ Sheehy (Ó Síthigh)

Pronunciation: SHEE-hee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Kerry
Meaning: Derived from síth, meaning “peace” or “fairy mound,” the Sheehy name was associated with early medieval families in Munster, particularly in Kerry and Limerick. The Sheehys were a respected Gaelic family, known for their roles as warriors and landholders. During the Cromwellian period, many Sheehys were displaced but retained their prominence in Irish society. Notable figures include David Sheehy, an Irish nationalist politician in the 19th century.

🏇 Sheridan (Ó Sirideáin)

Pronunciation: SHER-i-dan
First recorded: 1285
Region: Cavan
Meaning: Originating from the Irish sirideán, meaning “seeker” or “searcher,” the Sheridan family were hereditary poets and historians to the O’Reilly clan of Cavan. They played a crucial role in preserving Gaelic literature and tradition. Richard Brinsley Sheridan, the famous playwright and orator, is one of the most well-known bearers of the name. The Sheridans maintained their influence even after the decline of the Gaelic order.

🛡️ Shields (Ó Síoda)

Pronunciation: SHEELDS
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Ulster
Meaning: Derived from the Irish word síoda, meaning “silk,” the Shields name is believed to have been given to a family known for dealing in fine cloth or having an elegant demeanor. Others suggest it could be linked to the use of shields in battle. The last name is widespread in Ulster, with many Shields families tracing their ancestry to County Down. It became popular among Irish immigrants in Scotland and America.

🌿 Skeffington (Ó Sceithín)

Pronunciation: SKEF-ing-ton
First recorded: 16th century
Region: Meath
Meaning: Thought to derive from the Irish sceithín, meaning “small bush” or “thorny land,” this name was originally associated with a branch of the Anglo-Norman Skeffington family who settled in Ireland. Over time, they assimilated into Gaelic society, particularly in Meath. The Skeffingtons were prominent landowners and played a role in local politics. The Viscounts Massereene, a noble Irish family, descended from this lineage.

🔨 Skelly (Ó Scealláin)

Pronunciation: SKEL-ee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Westmeath
Meaning: From sceallán, meaning “chips” or “splinters,” this last name may have originated from a woodworker or craftsman. The Skelly family were historically settled in Westmeath, where they served as local chieftains and landowners. They were involved in various trades, including carpentry and farming. Today, the name remains common in the Midlands.

🌲 Slattery (Ó Slatara)

Pronunciation: SLAT-uh-ree
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Clare
Meaning: Derived from slat, meaning “rod” or “switch,” this name was linked to a family known for enforcing law and order, possibly as judges or officials. The Slatterys were influential in Clare and Tipperary, often serving as poets and historians. A notable bearer is John Slattery, the American actor known for Mad Men. The name remains widespread in Ireland and among the diaspora.

🍺 Smithwick (Ó Smidic)

Pronunciation: SMITH-ick
First recorded: 18th century
Region: Kilkenny
Meaning: Best known today for the famous Smithwick’s brewery in Kilkenny, this name likely originates from a craft or trade-related term. The Smithwicks were a well-established family of brewers who played a key role in Ireland’s beer industry. John Smithwick founded the brewery in 1710, and it became one of Ireland’s most successful brands. The name remains strongly linked to Kilkenny’s brewing history.

🌞 Somers (Ó Somacháin)

Pronunciation: SUM-ers
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Wexford
Meaning: Derived from the Old French somier, meaning “beast of burden” or “packhorse,” this last name likely came to Ireland with the Anglo-Normans. However, the Gaelic version, Ó Somacháin, suggests a native Irish lineage with a meaning connected to summer (samhradh). The Somers family established themselves in Wexford and later spread throughout Leinster. Many Somers emigrated during the 19th-century famine, particularly to the U.S. and Australia.

🔪 Spillane (Ó Spealáin)

Pronunciation: SPIH-lan
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: Derived from speal, meaning “scythe,” this name was associated with farming and weaponry. The Spillanes were a well-known Gaelic family in Munster, particularly in Cork and Kerry. Some were renowned as warriors, while others were skilled blacksmiths who crafted weapons and tools. Today, the name is strongly linked to sports, with Pat Spillane, the legendary Gaelic footballer, being a notable bearer.

🏰 Stack (Ó Stac)

Pronunciation: STAK
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Kerry
Meaning: Likely of Norman origin, the Stack family became fully Gaelicized over time. The name may derive from a fortified dwelling or a watchtower. The Stacks were a prominent Gaelic-Irish family in Kerry, known for their involvement in both military and religious life. Maurice Stack, a 19th-century Fenian, is among the most famous individuals from this lineage.

🛡️ Staunton (Ó Stánáin)

Pronunciation: STAWN-ton
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Mayo
Meaning: The Staunton family is of Anglo-Norman origin but became deeply integrated into Irish society. The name likely comes from the Old English stan tun, meaning “stone settlement.” By the 14th century, the Stauntons held land in Connacht, where they served as landowners and knights under the Burke overlords. The family maintained its influence even during the Tudor conquest of Ireland.

🌊 Sugrue (Ó Siochrú)

Pronunciation: SOO-grew
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Kerry
Meaning: Derived from siochru, meaning “gentle” or “peaceful,” this name reflects a family known for diplomacy rather than warfare. The Sugrues were primarily based in Kerry, where they served as mediators and landholders. Despite their peaceful origins, some Sugrues became involved in Irish rebellions against English rule. The name remains most common in Munster today.

🌪️ Swift (Ó Fuada)

Pronunciation: SWIFT
First recorded: 17th century
Region: Meath
Meaning: Derived from the Old Irish fuada, meaning “hasty” or “swift,” this name was likely given to messengers or warriors known for their speed. Though often associated with Jonathan Swift, the famous author of Gulliver’s Travels, the Gaelic form indicates an older Irish lineage. The Swifts were primarily found in Meath, where they held land and served as couriers.

🏗️ Smyth (Ó Smídh)

Pronunciation: SMITH
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Dublin
Meaning: A variation of Smith, this name comes from smídh, meaning “craftsman” or “blacksmith.” The Smyths were an important family of metalworkers and builders in medieval Ireland. Over time, the name became associated with both the working class and landed gentry, with Smyth families found throughout Leinster.

⚔️ Skerrett (Ó Scired)

Pronunciation: SKER-it
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Galway
Meaning: The Skerrett family was of Anglo-Norman origin, arriving in Ireland after the Norman invasion. They quickly established themselves in Galway, becoming one of the city’s influential “Tribes of Galway,” a group of wealthy merchant families. Over time, they Gaelicized their name as Ó Scired, integrating into Irish society. The Skerretts were known for their involvement in trade and politics, and their legacy remains tied to Galway’s history.

🍀 Shanahan (Ó Seanacháin)

Pronunciation: SHAN-a-han
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Tipperary
Meaning: Derived from Seanach, meaning “ancient” or “wise,” the name was likely given to a family of historians, poets, or judges. The Shanahans were prominent in Munster, especially in Tipperary and Limerick. They were associated with the O’Briens and served as advisors and chroniclers. The name remains common in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora, particularly in the United States.

🛡️ Scanlon (Ó Scannláin)

Pronunciation: SKAN-lon
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Limerick
Meaning: The name originates from scannal, meaning “contention” or “dispute,” suggesting a warrior lineage. The Scanlons were a powerful sept in Munster, particularly in Limerick and Clare. They were noted as strong allies of the ruling Gaelic chieftains. The last name remains widespread in Ireland, and notable Scanlons have played roles in politics and sport.

🌊 Scollan (Ó Scolláin)

Pronunciation: SKOL-an
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Leitrim
Meaning: Derived from scolla, meaning “torrent” or “flood,” the name may have originally been given to a family living near a river or known for their forceful nature. The Scollans were historically found in Leitrim and Roscommon. Over time, some variations of the name spread into Ulster, and it remains a recognized but relatively rare last name.

🦈 Sharkey (Ó Searcaigh)

Pronunciation: SHAR-key
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Donegal
Meaning: Derived from searc, meaning “love” or “affectionate,” the Sharkey name may have been associated with a family known for their kindness or as a poetic reference. The Sharkeys were a prominent sept in Donegal, often serving as poets, historians, and scholars to the O’Donnells. The last name is still common in the north of Ireland and among Irish-Americans.

🏹 Shorten (Ó Seartáin)

Pronunciation: SHOR-ten
First recorded: 16th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: The name Seartáin likely derives from searta, meaning “strong” or “stubborn,” suggesting a warrior or defensive lineage. Shortens were primarily found in Cork, where they were involved in trade and maritime activities. While less common today, the name still appears in Munster and among Irish emigrant families in Australia and the U.S.

🦊 Shinners (Ó Sionnaigh)

Pronunciation: SHIN-ners
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Offaly
Meaning: Derived from sionnach, meaning “fox,” this last name was given to a family known for their cunning or red-haired appearance. The Shinners were historically found in the Midlands, particularly Offaly. They were known as skilled traders and warriors. Over time, the name became associated with political activism, particularly in the 20th century.

⛰️ Slevin (Ó Sleibhin)

Pronunciation: SLEH-vin
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Tyrone
Meaning: The name comes from sléibhín, meaning “little mountain,” and was originally given to a family living in hilly terrain. The Slevins were warriors and chieftains in Ulster, often involved in regional conflicts. Many Slevins emigrated to Scotland and America in the 18th and 19th centuries, where the name continues to be well-known.

🌾 Scurry (Ó Scorraigh)

Pronunciation: SKUR-ee
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Wexford
Meaning: Likely derived from scorrach, meaning “rugged” or “fertile land,” the Scurry family may have originally been farmers or landowners in Wexford. They played a role in local governance and trade. The name is now rare in Ireland but remains present among descendants abroad, particularly in the U.S.

⚖️ Sexton (Ó Seasnáin)

Pronunciation: SEK-ston
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Clare
Meaning: The name Sexton is derived from the Latin sacristanus, meaning “church custodian” or “sacristan.” The Gaelic version, Ó Seasnáin, suggests a family that served in ecclesiastical roles, possibly as keepers of church property. The Sextons of Clare were known for their ties to religious and scholarly institutions. The name remains common in both Ireland and America.

🌿 Sorohan (Ó Soracháin)

Pronunciation: SOR-oh-han
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Longford
Meaning: The last name Sorohan likely derives from sorach, meaning “rugged” or “rough terrain,” which suggests that the family originally lived in a hilly or wild area. The Sorohans were a Gaelic sept based in Longford, often associated with farming and landholding. Though not as widespread as other Irish last names, it remains common in Longford and surrounding counties.

⚖️ Shiel (Ó Siadhail)

Pronunciation: SHEEL
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Offaly
Meaning: From siadhail, meaning “judicious” or “wise,” this last name may have originally belonged to a family of judges, advisors, or poets. The Shiels were known for their service in legal and scholarly positions in Gaelic Ireland, particularly in Leinster. The name remains prominent in Ireland, especially in the Midlands and the north.

🏹 Shiels (Ó Siadhail)

Pronunciation: SHEELS
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Ulster
Meaning: A variant spelling of Shiel, but with a stronger historical presence in Ulster. The Shiels were noted warriors and landowners, often allied with the ruling Gaelic lords. Over time, many Shiels families migrated to Scotland, where the name also became established.

⚔️ Sloyan (Ó Sluaghadháin)

Pronunciation: SLOY-an
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Mayo
Meaning: Derived from sluaghadh, meaning “raider” or “warrior host,” the Sloyan family were military leaders in Connacht. They served as defenders of their territories and were frequently involved in skirmishes against Norman and later English invaders. The name remains common in Mayo and Galway.

🎵 Sheeran (Ó Sírín)

Pronunciation: SHEER-an
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Clare
Meaning: Likely derived from síor, meaning “eternal” or “lasting,” the Sheeran family were poets and bards in medieval Ireland. They were highly respected for their contributions to oral history and song. Today, the most famous bearer of the name is Ed Sheeran, the English-Irish singer-songwriter, which has brought renewed attention to the name.

🌊 Sugden (Ó Sugdáin)

Pronunciation: SUG-den
First recorded: 15th century
Region: Limerick
Meaning: The name Sugden is a rare Irish last name, believed to have originated from a family living near water (sugh, meaning “juice” or “liquid”). This suggests an association with fishing or trade along Ireland’s waterways. The name is not widely found today but retains a historical presence in Limerick.

⚔️ Swords (Ó Suaird)

Pronunciation: SWORDS
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Dublin
Meaning: Named after the town of Swords in Dublin, this last name is linked to warriors or guardians. The name may have originally belonged to a family responsible for protecting a local settlement or monastery. Over time, it became a common last name in Dublin and Meath.

🌳 Skehan (Ó Sceacháin)

Pronunciation: SKEE-an
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Kilkenny
Meaning: Derived from sceach, meaning “thorn bush” or “hawthorn tree,” the Skehan name was likely given to a family living near a prominent hawthorn grove. These trees held great significance in Irish folklore, often associated with fairies and protective magic. The Skehans were mainly found in Kilkenny and Tipperary.

🕊️ Sheary (Ó Siochfhradha)

Pronunciation: SHEER-ee
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Waterford
Meaning: Derived from siochfhradh, meaning “peaceful,” the Sheary family were known as diplomats, scholars, and monks. They played a role in the preservation of Gaelic learning and history. The last name remains common in Waterford and Cork.

🐎 Sherry (Ó Searraigh)

Pronunciation: SHER-ee
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Monaghan
Meaning: Derived from searrach, meaning “foal,” the name was originally associated with horse breeding or a family known for their agility in battle. The Sherrys were a prominent sept in Ulster, and many later emigrated to Scotland and America. The name remains well-known in Monaghan and surrounding counties.

Last Names with a Strong Irish Influence

⚔️ Savage (Mac an tSabhasaigh)

Pronunciation: SAV-ij
First recorded: 1176
Region: Antrim
Meaning: The last name Savage comes from the Norman word sauvage, meaning “wild” or “untamed.” It was introduced to Ireland by the Savage family, who arrived with the Normans in the 12th century and settled in Ulster, particularly Antrim. They became powerful landowners and were known for their military service. Over time, they integrated into Gaelic society, adopting the Irish form Mac an tSabhasaigh. Despite their Norman origins, the Savages played an important role in defending Ulster against English incursions.

🛡️ Scanlan (Ó Scannláin)

Pronunciation: SKAN-lan
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Limerick
Meaning: Derived from scannal, meaning “contention” or “dispute,” the Scanlan name was often associated with warriors or individuals known for their fierce nature. The Scanlans were an important Gaelic family in Munster, particularly in Limerick and Clare, where they were allied with the ruling O’Briens. Many Scanlans emigrated during the 19th-century famine, and the name is still common in Ireland and the United States.

🌊 Scannell (Ó Scannail)

Pronunciation: SKAN-ell
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: A variation of Scanlan, the name Scannail also derives from scannal, meaning “dispute.” The Scannells were historically found in Munster, especially Cork and Kerry, where they were known as poets, warriors, and landholders. Over time, the family spread throughout Ireland and later to England and America. Notable bearers include Tom Scannell, an Irish footballer.

🌿 Shannon (Ó Seanáin)

Pronunciation: SHAN-on
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Clare
Meaning: Derived from Seanán, meaning “little wise one” or “old river,” this last name is closely linked to the River Shannon, Ireland’s longest river. The Shannon family were an important Gaelic sept in Munster, particularly in Clare, where they were involved in trade and fishing. Saint Senan, a famous Irish missionary, is thought to have influenced the name’s popularity.

🏇 Shaughnessy (Ó Seachnasaigh)

Pronunciation: SHAW-nes-see
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Galway
Meaning: From seachnasach, meaning “warrior” or “defensive leader,” the Shaughnessys were an important Connacht family, historically serving as chiefs under the O’Flahertys of Galway. They were known for their resistance to Norman and later English rule. The name remains popular in the west of Ireland and among Irish-American descendants.

⛰️ Slane (Ó Sléibhín)

Pronunciation: SLAYN
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Meath
Meaning: Derived from sléibhín, meaning “little mountain,” the name was originally associated with families living near hills or rugged terrain. The Slane family were based in Meath and held lands near the historic Hill of Slane, where Saint Patrick is said to have lit the first Easter fire in Ireland. The name remains tied to the region today.

🌿 Slattery (Ó Slatara)

Pronunciation: SLAT-uh-ree
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Clare
Meaning: Derived from slat, meaning “rod” or “switch,” this last name was linked to a family known for enforcing law and order, possibly as judges or officials. The Slatterys were influential in Clare and Tipperary, often serving as poets and historians. A notable bearer is John Slattery, the American actor known for Mad Men. The name remains widespread in Ireland and among the diaspora.

⚔️ Sloan (Ó Sluaghadháin)

Pronunciation: SLOHN
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Ulster
Meaning: Derived from sluaghadh, meaning “raider” or “warrior host,” the Sloan name was associated with a powerful military family in Ulster. They were known for their participation in battles against Norman invaders and English forces. Sir Hans Sloane, an Irish physician and collector, is one of the most famous bearers. His collections formed the foundation of the British Museum.

🏰 Stapleton (Mac an Ghaill)

Pronunciation: STAP-le-ton
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Tipperary
Meaning: Originally of Norman origin, Stapleton was adopted by an Irish family known as Mac an Ghaill, meaning “son of the foreigner.” The family settled in Munster, particularly in Tipperary, where they became influential landowners. Some Stapletons were involved in military leadership, and their name remains prominent in Ireland and among Irish descendants abroad.

🏹 Steen (Mac Stiabhna)

Pronunciation: STEEN
First recorded: 15th century
Region: Antrim
Meaning: The last name Steen is an anglicized form of Mac Stiabhna, meaning “son of Stephen.” It likely originated in Scotland and came to Ireland with the Plantation of Ulster. Over time, the Steens integrated into Irish society, especially in Antrim and Down. The name is now common among Irish-Scottish families.

🌊 Sullivan (Ó Súilleabháin)

Pronunciation: SULL-ih-van
First recorded: 11th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: The last name Sullivan comes from súil, meaning “eye,” possibly referring to a family with distinctive eyes or strong vision. The Sullivans were a dominant Gaelic clan in Munster, particularly in Cork and Kerry. They were known for their warriors and poets, and the name remains one of the most common in Ireland today.

🛡️ Somerville (Ó Somhairligh)

Pronunciation: SUM-er-vil
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Meath
Meaning: Of Norman origin, the Somerville family settled in Ireland during the medieval period and became known as Ó Somhairligh in Gaelic. The name is thought to derive from a location in France, but the Irish version suggests it was adapted into local naming customs. Somervilles were landowners and knights, particularly in Meath and Dublin.

🏇 Shortall (Ó Shortail)

Pronunciation: SHOR-tall
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Kilkenny
Meaning: Derived from the Old Norman-French chortail, meaning “short cloak,” this last name was brought to Ireland by the Normans. The Shortalls settled in Kilkenny, where they became an established family of traders and landowners. The name is still found in the southeast of Ireland today.

🔨 Smyth (Mac Gabhann)

Pronunciation: SMITH
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Dublin
Meaning: A variation of Smith, this name comes from Mac Gabhann, meaning “son of the smith.” The Smyths were an important family of metalworkers and builders in medieval Ireland. Over time, the name became associated with both the working class and landed gentry, with Smyth families found throughout Leinster.

🌿 Stackpoole (de Stacphuill)

Pronunciation: STACK-pool
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Clare
Meaning: Derived from the Norman de Stacphuill, meaning “of Stack’s pool,” this name was brought to Ireland during the medieval period. The Stackpoole family settled in Clare, where they became influential landowners and traders. Over time, they adapted to Gaelic society while retaining their distinct heritage.

⚔️ Stafford (Ó Staifírd)

Pronunciation: STAF-erd
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Wexford
Meaning: The Stafford family arrived in Ireland with the Anglo-Normans and became prominent in Wexford. The name originally comes from a place in England, meaning “landing place by the ford.” Over time, the Irish branch of the family became Gaelicized, adopting Ó Staifírd. The Staffords were landowners and military leaders, playing a role in Irish resistance movements during later centuries.

🕊️ St. John (Mac an tSíodháin)

Pronunciation: SIN-jin
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Meath
Meaning: Though French in origin, the St. John family settled in Ireland during the Norman conquest. The name Mac an tSíodháin means “son of the peaceful one,” suggesting an association with diplomacy or religious orders. The St. Johns were connected to noble families in Meath and Leinster, often serving as knights and administrators. The name’s unusual pronunciation, “Sinjin,” became popular in aristocratic circles.

🏹 Seymour (Mac Síthigh)

Pronunciation: SEE-more
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Down
Meaning: Originally of Norman descent, the Seymour family settled in Ireland during the medieval period. The Irish form, Mac Síthigh, translates to “descendant of peace,” which could indicate a family involved in mediation or governance. Some Seymours later held titles in England, while others remained in Ireland, contributing to military and political history.

🌾 Spelman (Ó Spealáin)

Pronunciation: SPEL-man
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Galway
Meaning: Derived from speal, meaning “scythe,” the Spelmans were historically involved in farming or blacksmithing. The family established itself in Galway and Mayo, where they played a role in local leadership. Some Spelmans became well-known scholars and writers, with a strong tradition of education in the family.

🌊 Skerritt (Mac Sceir)

Pronunciation: SKER-it
First recorded: 15th century
Region: Limerick
Meaning: A rare last name, Skerritt comes from sceir, meaning “reef” or “sea rock,” suggesting a coastal origin. The family was known for maritime trade and fishing, particularly in Limerick. Over time, Skerritts spread across Ireland, and today, the name is more commonly found in Irish-American communities.

🏰 Steele (Mac Stial)

Pronunciation: STEEL
First recorded: 16th century
Region: Antrim
Meaning: This last name likely comes from the Old English stiele, meaning “hard” or “unyielding,” and was originally a nickname for someone strong-willed. The Irish version, Mac Stial, was adopted by Gaelic families in Ulster. Many Steeles became soldiers and landowners, and the name remains common in Northern Ireland today.

⚔️ Swiney (Mac Suibhne)

Pronunciation: SWEE-nee
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Donegal
Meaning: A branch of the powerful Mac Sweeney (Mac Suibhne) clan, the Swineys were originally Scottish warriors who settled in Donegal as gallowglass mercenaries. The name Suibhne means “pleasant” or “well-going,” though the family was known more for its military prowess than peaceful endeavors.

🌳 Stokes (Ó Stoc)

Pronunciation: STOAKS
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Dublin
Meaning: Derived from the Old English stoc, meaning “dwelling” or “outpost,” the Stokes family settled in Ireland during the Norman period. The Gaelic form, Ó Stoc, suggests that the name was fully integrated into Irish society. Many Stokes families became traders and merchants, particularly in Dublin and Cork.

🏇 Sandys (Mac Sandáis)

Pronunciation: SAN-deez
First recorded: 15th century
Region: Kilkenny
Meaning: Likely of Anglo-Norman origin, Sandys evolved from the Old French Sande, meaning “sandy place.” The Gaelic form Mac Sandáis was used by some Irish families. The Sandys family became landowners in Kilkenny, where they were involved in governance and the legal profession.

⛰️ Sloane (Ó Sluaghadháin)

Pronunciation: SLOHN
First recorded: 10th century
Region: Ulster
Meaning: Derived from sluaghadh, meaning “raider” or “warrior host,” the Sloane name was associated with a powerful military family in Ulster. They were known for their participation in battles against Norman invaders and English forces. Sir Hans Sloane, an Irish physician and collector, is one of the most famous bearers. His collections formed the foundation of the British Museum.

🏰 Sutton (Mac Sutáin)

Pronunciation: SUT-ton
First recorded: 12th century
Region: Dublin
Meaning: Originally of Norman origin, Sutton comes from the Old English sud tun, meaning “south town” or “southern settlement.” The last name arrived in Ireland with the Anglo-Norman invasion, and over time, the family integrated into Irish society. The Gaelic form Mac Sutáin was adopted by some branches. The Suttons were landowners in Leinster, particularly in Dublin and Wexford.

🏹 Synnott (Mac Sionoid)

Pronunciation: SIN-ott
First recorded: 13th century
Region: Wexford
Meaning: The Synnott family came to Ireland with the Norman invasion and quickly established themselves in Wexford. The name derives from the Old French Sennot, meaning “wise” or “old.” The Synnotts were a powerful family, owning extensive lands and holding high-ranking military positions. Some members were involved in the 17th-century Confederate Wars.

🌊 Sweetman (Mac Suibhne)

Pronunciation: SWEET-man
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Kilkenny
Meaning: A variation of Mac Suibhne, meaning “pleasant” or “well-going,” Sweetman was commonly associated with Norman-Irish families who became Gaelicized. The Sweetmans were influential merchants in Kilkenny and Waterford, particularly in trade and politics. The name remains widespread among Irish descendants abroad.

🌿 Sewell (Mac Súilleabháin)

Pronunciation: SOO-ell
First recorded: 14th century
Region: Cork
Meaning: A variant of the Gaelic Ó Súilleabháin (Sullivan), Sewell was an anglicized form used by some branches of the family. The name likely comes from súil, meaning “eye,” referring to someone with keen vision or wisdom. The Sewells were involved in politics and trade, particularly in Cork.

🏹 Simmons (Mac Síomóin)

Pronunciation: SIM-ons
First recorded: 15th century
Region: Antrim
Meaning: A name of biblical origin, Simmons is derived from Mac Síomóin, meaning “son of Simon.” It likely came to Ireland with English and Scottish settlers during the Plantation period. The Simmons family became established in Antrim and Down, particularly among the Protestant community.

Searching for an Irish name with a strong history? Our comprehensive lists of first and last names will help you discover their origins, meanings, and unique connections to Irish culture.