Surname Neillan - Meaning and Origin

Neillan: What does the surname Neillan mean?

Neillan is a rare surname of Irish origin. Its meaning is somewhat obscured due to variations in spelling during the process of anglicization. The name could potentially be derived from the Gaelic "O'Niallain," which means "descendant of Niall." The name "Niall" typically means "champion," giving a possible interpretation of Neillan as "descendant of the champion." Alternatively, it may also be a variation of the surname Nealon, which has roots in the Gaelic “O’Niallain" or "Mac an Fhailghigh" meaning "son of the poor man." Etymological translations can often be somewhat speculative, particularly with less common names. It's always recommended to engage in further personal genealogical research for a more accurate understanding.

Neillan: Where does the name Neillan come from?

The surname Neillan is of Irish origin; it is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name Mac Naoimháin, meaning "son of Naoimhin". The name Naoimhin is derived from an adjective "naomh” meaning "holy" or "saintly". While the surname may have multiple variants such as O'Neylan, Neylan, and Neilan, it is not highly commonly seen in modern times.

Though the Neillan surname can be found scattered across several English-speaking countries including Ireland, the United States, Canada, and Australia, it is not common in any particular region. The greatest concentration may likely still be found in Ireland, specifically traced back to County Clare in the western part of the country, where the name originated. However, due to emigration patterns from Ireland in the past centuries, descendants carrying the Neillan surname have dispersed widely.

Variations of the surname Neillan

The surname Neillan has origins in Ireland and is a variation of the Gaelic surname Ó Néill, meaning "descendant of Niall." Other variations or spellings of this surname may include Neill, O’Neill, Neilan, Neil, Nealan, Nealon, and O'Neilan. Some less common variations include Niallan, Nialon, and O'Nealon. The apostrophe in O'Neilan, O'Neal, and O'Neill typically indicates "grandson of" or "descendant of" in Irish surnames.

It is also important to note that the surname has been Anglicized over time, which is why there are so many variations. Furthermore, migration and settlement patterns have also contributed to the variation in spelling. For example, some family branches may have opted to drop the ‘O’ upon emigration to assimilate more quickly or to avoid discrimination.

These names are distributed widely in Ireland, with the heaviest concentration in Ulster and northern Leinster. Globally, these names can also be found in places with significant Irish diaspora such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Famous people with the name Neillan

• Stephen Neillan: is a British actor from Bristol, England who became well known for his roles in Death in Paradise (2013–15) and Terra Nova (2011).
• Bill Neillan: Scottish actor, known for his roles in The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (2005) and Coronation Street (1986).
• Michael Neillan: Irish actor best known for his roles in The Tudors (2007–08) and Vikings (2013–14).
• Maurice Neillan: British actor who starred in productions of Romeo and Julietapart (2005–07).
• John Neillan: English actor best known for his role in The Professionals (1982).
• Andrew Neillan: Australian actor and producer who has appeared on numerous television shows and films.
• Mark Neillan: British actor who starred in several British television shows and films.
• Thomas Neillan: British actor and comedian who is well known for his roles in Diploma (1969) and Wasted on the Young (2012).
• Martin Neillan: British actor best known for his roles in Coronation Street (1960) and Linden Hill (2009).
• Richard Neillan: Canadian actor and writer best known for his roles in Young at Heart (1985) and The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (2005).

Other surnames

NeillNeilleNeilly