Gaelic sept

Shiel

Ó Siadhail
Also: Shields, O'Shiel, Sheils

“descendant of Siadhal”

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

Quick answers
Is Shiel an Irish name?

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

What does the surname Shiel mean?

Shiel (Irish: Ó Siadhail) means “descendant of Siadhal”. Origin: Gaelic sept.

Where in Ireland is the surname Shiel from?

The historic homeland of the Shiel name is Donegal, Westmeath, Offaly. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.

What is the Irish for Shiel?

Ó Siadhail. Related spellings: Shields, O'Shiel, Sheils.

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

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