Gaelic sept

Rooney

Ó Ruanaidh
Also: O'Rooney

“descendant of Ruanadh, 'the champion'”

The sept's historic heartland, highlighted. People moved — a name can be found far from home.

Quick answers
Is Rooney an Irish name?

Rooney is a Gaelic name: it was formed in Irish, from an Irish ancestor, before English was spoken here. In Irish the name is Ó Ruanaidh.

What does the surname Rooney mean?

Rooney (Irish: Ó Ruanaidh) means “descendant of Ruanadh, 'the champion'”. Origin: Gaelic sept.

Where in Ireland is the surname Rooney from?

The historic homeland of the Rooney name is Down, Fermanagh, Mayo. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.

What is the Irish for Rooney?

Ó Ruanaidh. Related spellings: O'Rooney.

Looking for the Rooney family crest? Read this first — arms belong to people, not surnames, and the honest version is more interesting. Tracing Rooney ancestors? The step-by-step guide.

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