How common is the O'Malley surname?

There are approximately 40,000 people with the surname O'Malley in the United States.

Are there O'Malley soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 129 soldiers with the O'Malley surname appear in Civil War records.

O'Malley

Q: What does the surname O'Malley mean?

The surname O'Malley means "Descendant of Malley, derived from the Irish personal name Mael Maedoc or similar elements meaning 'devotee'.". It is of Irish origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Descendant of Malley, derived from the Irish personal name Mael Maedoc or similar elements meaning 'devotee'.

Etymology

The Irish prefix 'O'' (from 'Ó') means 'descendant of,' combined with Malley from Irish personal name roots. The name has been documented in Irish records since medieval times.

About the O'Malley Surname

O'Malley is a prominent Irish patronymic surname with roots in medieval Connacht nobility. The family is particularly famous for Grace O'Malley, the legendary pirate queen of the 16th century.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 40,000 bearers in the United States #639 most common surname

Rare Common

Found throughout Ireland, particularly in Connacht, with significant diaspora in English-speaking countries.

O'Malley Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the O'Malley Surname

Henry O'Malley

Quick Facts

Origin: Irish
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: 12th century
Estimated Bearers: 40,000

War Records

129 soldiers with the O'Malley surname found in Civil War records.

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