The sept's historic heartland, highlighted. People moved — a name can be found far from home.
Quick answersIs Ryan an Irish name?
Ryan is a Gaelic name: it was formed in Irish, from an Irish ancestor, before English was spoken here. In Irish the name is Ó Maoilriain.
What does the surname Ryan mean?
Ryan (Irish: Ó Maoilriain) means “descendant of Maoilriaghain”. Origin: Gaelic sept.
Where in Ireland is the surname Ryan from?
The historic homeland of the Ryan name is Tipperary, Limerick. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.
What is the Irish for Ryan?
Ó Maoilriain. Related spellings: O'Ryan, Mulryan.
Looking for the Ryan family crest? Read this first — arms belong to people, not surnames, and the honest version is more interesting.
Tracing Ryan ancestors? The step-by-step guide.