O'Reilly

Meaning

Descendant of Raghallach, derived from the Gaelic 'raghall' meaning 'foreigner' or 'stranger.'

Etymology

The surname comes from the Irish 'Ó Raghallaigh,' where 'Ó' means 'descendant of' and Raghallach is a personal name. The root 'raghall' originally referred to foreigners or Vikings in Irish tradition.

About the O'Reilly Surname

O'Reilly is a prominent Irish surname with roots in the Midlands, particularly associated with County Cavan. The O'Reilly family held considerable power in medieval Ireland and maintained strong territorial influence.

Distribution

Concentrated in the Midlands of Ireland, particularly in County Cavan and County Westmeath, with significant diaspora communities in the United States, Canada, and Australia.

People with the O'Reilly Surname