Summary

Surname NEIL is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name 'Niall' meaning 'champion' or 'cloud'. It has a rich history and is associated with several notable individuals throughout the centuries.
There are
10228
Neils in the USA
Neil is the
3496th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Neil

AlexanderNeil

Scottish engineer and industrialist known for his contributions to railway construction and locomotive design in the late 19th century.

SamuelNeil

American politician who served as a senator from Ohio in the early 20th century and played a key role in advocating for progressive reforms.

EmilyNeil

British suffragette and women's rights activist who fought for gender equality and played a significant role in the suffrage movement during the early 20th century.

WilliamNeil

American composer and conductor known for his contributions to classical music, particularly in the realm of orchestral composition.

HelenNeil

Irish poet and writer who gained recognition for her profound works exploring themes of nature, love, and identity in the early 19th century.

Neil Genealogy

OriginsThe surname Neil has origins in various cultures and can be traced back to Gaelic, English, and Irish origins.
Geographic DistributionThe surname Neil is found in regions such as Scotland, Ireland, England, and the United States.
VariationsVariations of the surname Neil include Neal, Neill, and Niall.
Migration and ImmigrationMigration and immigration of individuals with the surname Neil occurred during different times and places. Examples include the movement of Scottish Neils to America during the 18th and 19th centuries due to economic opportunities and Irish Neils immigrating to England during the 19th century to escape poverty. Additionally, some Neils migrated from Ireland to the United States during the Irish Potato Famine in the mid-19th century in search of better living conditions. The surname also spread to other regions through migration and colonization, leading to the presence of Neils in countries like Canada and Australia.