Summary

Surname NEILL is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name Ó Néill, meaning 'descendant of Niall'. It is a prominent surname with a rich history in Ireland.
There are
9404
Neills in the USA
Neill is the
3768th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Neill

HughO'Neill

Irish nobleman who led a rebellion against English rule in the late 16th century, known as the Nine Years' War.

CahirO'Neill

Irish chieftain who fought against English forces during the Tudor conquest of Ireland in the 16th century.

ThomasNeil

Scottish military officer who commanded a brigade during the American Revolutionary War and later served as a state legislator.

Niallof

Legendary Irish king who is said to have established the Uí Néill dynasty and conducted raids on nearby kingdoms.

NeillBlomkamp

South African-Canadian film director known for directing films like District 9, Elysium, and Chappie.

Neill Genealogy

OriginsThe surname Neill has origins in both Ireland and Scotland.
Geographic DistributionNeill is a common surname found in various parts of Ireland, particularly in the provinces of Ulster and Connacht, as well as in Scotland.
VariationsVariations of the surname Neill include O'Neill, O'Neil, Niel, and Neillan.
Migration and ImmigrationMigration and immigration of individuals with the surname Neill occurred during different periods and in various places. For example, during the 19th century, many Irish individuals with the surname Neill emigrated to countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia due to factors such as economic hardship, the Great Famine, and seeking better opportunities. Scottish individuals with the surname Neill may have also migrated to other parts of the British Empire or other countries for similar reasons.