Gaelic sept

Shanahan

Ó Seanacháin
Also: Shanaghan

“descendant of Seanachán, 'the old, wise one'”

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

Quick answers
Is Shanahan an Irish name?

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

What does the surname Shanahan mean?

Shanahan (Irish: Ó Seanacháin) means “descendant of Seanachán, 'the old, wise one'”. Origin: Gaelic sept.

Where in Ireland is the surname Shanahan from?

The historic homeland of the Shanahan name is Clare, Tipperary, Kerry. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.

What is the Irish for Shanahan?

Ó Seanacháin. Related spellings: Shanaghan.

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

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