Summary

The surname ONEILL is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name Ó Néill, meaning 'descendant of Niall'. It is believed to trace back to the ancient High King of Ireland, Niall of the Nine Hostages. The O'Neill clan played an important role in Irish history, with many notable figures emerging from this family.
There are
50028
Oneills in the USA
Oneill is the
689th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Oneill

EugeneO'Neill

Eugene O'Neill was an American playwright and Nobel laureate in Literature. He is widely considered one of the greatest playwrights in American history.

ShaquilleO'Neal

Shaquille O'Neal is a retired professional basketball player who is considered one of the greatest centers in NBA history. He won four NBA championships and was a 15-time All-Star.

EdO'Neill

Ed O'Neill is an American actor best known for his role as Al Bundy in the sitcom 'Married... with Children' and Jay Pritchett in the sitcom 'Modern Family.'

ChristineO'Neill

Christine O'Neill is a Scottish economist and academic known for her research in macroeconomics and monetary policy. She is currently the Vice Chair of the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee.

PaulO'Neil

Paul O'Neil was an American musician and songwriter who was the lead guitarist and songwriter for the band Trans-Siberian Orchestra. He was known for his virtuosic guitar playing and composing skills.

RosieO'Neill

Rosie O'Neill is an American entrepreneur and co-founder of the candy boutique retailer Sugarfina. She is known for her innovative and whimsical approach to candy.

TipO'Neill

Tip O'Neill was an American politician and Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1977 to 1987. He was known for his effective leadership and ability to work across party lines.

LiamO'Neill

Liam O'Neill is an Irish Gaelic football administrator and former President of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). He oversaw significant changes and reforms during his tenure.

ShaunaO'Neill

Shauna O'Neill is a Northern Irish professional snooker player who has achieved success on the World Women's Snooker Tour. She has won multiple titles and is known for her skill and consistency.

ColinO'Neill

Colin O'Neill is an Australian rules footballer who played for the Richmond Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). He was known for his tenacity and strong marking ability.

Oneill Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Oneill' is of Irish origin and is an anglicized form of the Gaelic surname 'Ó Néill', which means 'descendant of Niall'. The name Niall was the name of several ancient kings of Ireland and is derived from the Irish word 'niall', meaning 'passionate' or 'champion'.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Oneill' is most commonly found in Ireland and Northern Ireland, reflecting its Irish origins. It is also found in other English-speaking countries with Irish diaspora communities, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Oneill' include O'Neal, O'Neillan, O'Neil, Neal, Neale, Neill, Neil, Neillan, Nielson, and Niel.
Migration and ImmigrationIrish migration to other countries, especially during periods of famine and economic hardship, has led to the spread of the surname 'Oneill' to various parts of the world. Many Irish immigrants and their descendants have carried the name to countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.