Gaelic sept

Shanley

Mac Seanlaoich
Also: MacShanley

“son of the old hero”

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

Quick answers
Is Shanley an Irish name?

Shanley is a Gaelic name: it was formed in Irish, from an Irish ancestor, before English was spoken here. In Irish the name is Mac Seanlaoich.

What does the surname Shanley mean?

Shanley (Irish: Mac Seanlaoich) means “son of the old hero”. Origin: Gaelic sept.

Where in Ireland is the surname Shanley from?

The historic homeland of the Shanley name is Roscommon, Leitrim. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.

What is the Irish for Shanley?

Mac Seanlaoich. Related spellings: MacShanley.

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

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