O'Dea

Patronymic

Meaning

Descendant of Dea, derived from the Irish personal name Deaghaidh or similar elements.

Etymology

The Irish prefix 'O'' (from 'Ó') denotes 'descendant of,' combined with Dea from Irish personal name roots. The name has been documented in Irish records for centuries.

About the O'Dea Surname

O'Dea is an Irish patronymic surname with medieval origins in the Munster region. The family appears in Irish historical records as a minor noble family.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 3,000 bearers in the United States #2,235 most common surname
Rare Common

Found primarily in Ireland, particularly in Munster, with diaspora in English-speaking countries.

O'Dea Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
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Notable Bearers

People with the O'Dea Surname