Summary

The surname O'Sullivan is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name O Suileabhain, meaning 'descendant of Suileabhan'. The name has a rich history in Ireland and is often associated with County Cork. O'Sullivan families can be traced back to ancient times, with notable figures appearing in Irish folklore and history. The surname is renowned for its connection to the O'Sullivan Beara, a powerful Gaelic clan that played a significant role in the region. Today, O'Sullivan is a commonly found surname across the world, particularly in Ireland and countries with Irish diaspora.
There are
11818
Osullivans in the USA
Osullivan is the
3032nd
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Osullivan

JohnL.

John L. Sullivan (1858-1918) was an Irish-American heavyweight boxer, recognized as the first modern heavyweight champion of gloved boxing. He held the title from 1882 to 1892 and was known for his powerful punches and aggressive style.

MaureenO'Sullivan

Maureen O'Sullivan (1911-1998) was an Irish-American actress, best known for playing Jane Parker in the Tarzan series of films alongside Johnny Weissmuller. She appeared in over 70 films throughout her career.

FrankO'Sullivan

Frank O'Sullivan is a renowned Irish artist known for his landscape paintings inspired by the beauty of the Irish countryside. His works often capture the vibrant colors and unique light of the Irish landscape.

TimO'Sullivan

Tim O'Sullivan (1840-1882) was an American photographer known for his documentation of the American Civil War. His photographs provide a valuable historical record of the war and its impact on the nation.

JohnO'Sullivan

John O'Sullivan (1813-1895) was an Irish-American journalist and editor who coined the term 'manifest destiny.' He was a strong advocate for the expansion of the United States and the annexation of Texas.

EdmondO'Sullivan

Edmond O'Sullivan is an Irish historian and author known for his research on Irish history, particularly the period of English colonization and its impact on Irish society. He has written several acclaimed books on the subject.

JenniferO'Sullivan

Jennifer O'Sullivan is a contemporary Irish sculptor known for her innovative use of materials and exploration of themes related to identity and human experience. Her works have been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world.

MichaelO'Sullivan

Michael O'Sullivan (1896-1967) was an Irish Republican Army (IRA) leader during the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War. He played a significant role in the fight for Irish independence from British rule.

KateO'Sullivan

Kate O'Sullivan is an Irish journalist and writer, known for her insightful reporting on social and cultural issues in Ireland. She has contributed to numerous publications and has received several awards for her work.

DanielO'Sullivan

Daniel O'Sullivan is a British musician and composer, known for his work in various experimental and alternative music projects. He has collaborated with artists across different genres and is known for his eclectic approach to music.

Osullivan Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Osullivan' is derived from the Irish Gaelic name 'Ó Súilleabháin,' meaning 'descendant of Súilleabhán.' Súilleabhán is an Old Irish personal name derived from the elements 'suil,' meaning 'eye,' and 'leabhan,' meaning 'beauty' or 'handsome.' The name historically belonged to a prominent clan in County Kerry, Ireland.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Osullivan' is most commonly found in Ireland, especially in County Kerry, which is the ancestral home of the Osullivan clan. It is also found among Irish diaspora communities, particularly in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Osullivan' include 'O'Sullivan,' 'Sullivan,' 'O'Sulivan,' 'Llewelyn,' 'Sillivan,' 'MacSullivan,' 'Sulvan,' 'Sullvan,' and 'Sullavan.'
Migration and ImmigrationMany individuals with the surname 'Osullivan' have emigrated from Ireland to countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom throughout history. The Irish diaspora, motivated by various factors such as famine, political unrest, and economic opportunities, has contributed to the global distribution of the name.