Summary

Surname NEAL is of English origin and is derived from the given name Neal, which itself is a variant of the Gaelic name Niall. The name has ancient roots and was popularized by the Norse-Gaelic descendants in Ireland and Scotland. Over time, the surname NEAL spread to other English-speaking countries through migration and settlement.
There are
91694
Neals in the USA
Neal is the
337th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Neal

ShaquilleO'Neal

Shaquille O'Neal is a retired professional basketball player who is considered one of the greatest centers in NBA history. He played for multiple teams, including the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, and Miami Heat.

NealCassady

Neal Cassady was an American writer and a key figure of the Beat Generation. He is known for his association with prominent Beat writers such as Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg.

PatriciaNeal

Patricia Neal was an Academy Award-winning American actress known for her roles in films such as 'Hud,' 'The Fountainhead,' and 'Breakfast at Tiffany's.' She had a successful career in both film and theater.

ElaineNeal

Elaine Neal was a British trade unionist and politician. She served as a Member of Parliament for the UK Labour Party and was a prominent advocate for workers' rights.

NealStephenson

Neal Stephenson is an American author known for his science fiction and historical fiction novels. His notable works include 'Snow Crash,' 'Cryptonomicon,' and 'The Baroque Cycle.'

SharonNeal

Sharon Neal is an Australian actress known for her roles in television shows such as 'Neighbours' and 'Prisoner.' She has appeared in a variety of Australian and international productions.

JohnNeal

John Neal was an American writer and critic who is often considered a precursor to the American Romantic movement. He wrote novels, plays, and essays on various topics.

NealBoortz

Neal Boortz is an American radio host and author known for his conservative political views. He hosted 'The Neal Boortz Show' and has written several books on politics and economics.

PattonOswalt

Patton Oswalt is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and writer who has appeared in numerous films and television shows. He is known for his distinctive comedic style.

MichelleBachelet

Michelle Bachelet is a Chilean politician and physician who served as the President of Chile from 2006 to 2010 and again from 2014 to 2018. She is known for her progressive policies and advocacy for women's rights.

Neal Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Neal' is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name 'Ó Néill,' meaning 'descendant of Niall.' The name Niall comes from the Old Irish word 'niadh,' meaning 'champion' or 'cloud.' The Ó Néill dynasty was one of the most powerful and influential Gaelic families in Ireland.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Neal' is most commonly found in Ireland and Scotland, where it originated. It is also found in other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, due to migration and diaspora.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Neal' include 'Neill,' 'O'Neill,' and 'McNeill.'
Migration and ImmigrationPeople with the surname 'Neal' have migrated and immigrated to various countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, primarily due to factors such as economic opportunities and political events.