Surname Laffan - Meaning and Origin

Laffan: What does the surname Laffan mean?

The surname Laffan is derived from the Old English word “laffan” meaning to go away. The name originates from a family who, centuries ago, had been driven away or relocated. It can also be derived from an old Irish phrase meaning “good-natured” or “pleasant”.

Today, Laffan is a popular surname in the United Kingdom and Ireland where it is most common. Its English origin makes it likely that the family first originated in the British Isles. It is thought that the family may have traveled to England from mainland Europe hundreds of years ago, although the exact trail they took is unknown.

The earliest records of the family suggest that the Laffans were a respected family with considerable wealth. They were landowners and the holders of prestigious titles. This is evidenced in the old records of the family found in England, Wales, and Scotland.

The Laffans have a long history of prominence throughout the British Isles. The family has produced major political figures, military leaders, and leading industrialists. All of which attest to the importance the family has had in past centuries.

Despite its long and distinguished history in the British Isles, the Laffan family is still relatively unknown today. Although it is possible that the current generations may have kept up the proud traditions of their ancestors, the family name has faded into obscurity.

Laffan: Where does the name Laffan come from?

The last name Laffan is most commonly found in English-speaking countries. The name is derived from the Olde English personal name Laughing, which was a nickname given to those with a jovial personality. Records have been found of the Laffan family being mentioned as far back as the 14th century, though according to some sources it could have been in use much earlier.

In England, Laffan is most heavily concentrated around the south of the country, but there are still small pockets of families proudly bearing the name in various parts of the country.

In Ireland, the name can trace its roots back to medieval times, and is still widespread throughout the country. The largest concentrations reside in counties Dublin and Limerick.

In the United States, the name is most heavily concentrated along the East Coast, particularly in New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. This may have been due to the wave of Irish immigration that took place in the 19th century.

The last name Laffan is still in use in all of these countries today, with various families proudly bearing the name and continuing its legacy.

Variations of the surname Laffan

The surname Laffan is a variant of numerous different surnames, including Lavan, Laffon, Lavanne, Laffontaine, Lefan, Lapan, Laffoon, Lafan, Lefane, Lefond, Lafontaine and Lapon.

Laffan is derived from the ancient Irish name ‘Laven’, while variants often reflect Irish, French, and even Spanish influences. For instance, Lefan comes from the French surname ‘Lefan’, while Lapan originates from the Irish name ‘Laban’.

The most common spellings of the name Laffan are ‘Laffan’ and ‘Laffon’. The pronunciation is usually the same for both variants, but the elongated version ‘Laffon’ has become the more accepted variant in recent times.

Laffan is an uncommon name, but it is still found in many parts of the world. In the United States, Laffan has been documented in states such as New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. In Ireland, the name is less common, but it is still in use in certain rural areas.

The most common related surnames of Laffan are Lefond, Lefan, and Lapan. These related surnames are often derived from the original Irish name ‘Laven’. Over time, however, the variants have mutated due to various influences.

The variants of the name Laffan can be used to trace the geographical origin and history of the family. Even when the original surname becomes less common, its various forms can still be used to trace its ancient origins and provide a better sense of the family tree.

Famous people with the name Laffan

• Patricia Laffan: British film and television actress best known for her appearances in "The Lodger", "Georgy Girl" and "The Avengers".
• Dan Laffan: Irish sportsperson who set numerous records in running and also played Gaelic football and hurling for his local county team.
• Clarence Laffan: American civil servant and diplomat who served in the U.S. embassies in Mexico and Spain.
• James Laffan: British politician and lawyer who served as Prime Minister from 1841 to 1846 and was renowned for his political reforms.
• Francis Laffan: Australian singer, songwriter and guitarist who was a prominent figure in the Australian country music scene.
• Dorothy Laffan: Irish writer and dramatist best known for her works "Smoke O'Day" and "Surprised by Love".
• Nicholas Laffan: British landscape painter who was strongly influenced by the English romantic and musical traditions.
• Georgia Laffan: Irish-born Australian actress who starred in many films and television series including "The Lucky One", "Scorched" and "Mission: Impossible 6".
• William Laffan: American author best known for his novel "The Luck of Sevens", which is set in the fictional city of New York.
• William Laffan: Irish soldier and general who served with distinction in the British Army during the Crimean War.

Other surnames

Laffane