Summary

The surname WHELAN is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name Ó Faoláin, meaning 'descendant of Faolán', which translates to 'wolf' or 'little wolf'. The name is associated with the ancient Irish kingdom of Leinster and has a rich history in Irish culture.
There are
11363
Whelans in the USA
Whelan is the
3181st
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Whelan

JamesWhelan

James Whelan was an Irish nationalist and a member of the Irish Republican Brotherhood. He was executed for his involvement in the Fenian Rising of 1867.

SeánWhelan

Seán Whelan was an Irish journalist and broadcaster known for his work with RTÉ. He was a familiar voice on radio and television, covering major news events.

AnneGriffin-Powell

Anne Griffin-Powell Whelan is an American lawyer and judge. She served as a Michigan Supreme Court justice from 1997 to 2002.

MartinWhelan

Martin Whelan is an Australian neurologist and professor. He has made significant contributions to the field of neurology and has been recognized for his research on multiple sclerosis.

JosephWhelan

Joseph Whelan is a British singer and musician. He gained recognition after competing on the reality show 'The X Factor' and has since released his own music.

GerryWhelan

Gerry Whelan is an Irish Jesuit priest and theologian. He has served in various academic and pastoral roles, focusing on social justice and human rights.

MegWhelan

Meg Whelan is a New Zealand artist and illustrator. She is known for her vibrant and whimsical artwork, which often features animals and nature themes.

FrankWhelan

Frank Whelan was an English footballer who played as a forward. He had a successful career, playing for clubs like Manchester City and Aston Villa.

SiobhanWhelan

Siobhan Whelan is an Irish activist and advocate for reproductive rights. She has been involved in campaigns to reform Ireland's abortion laws.

MaireWhelan

Maire Whelan is an Irish barrister and politician. She served as the Attorney General of Ireland from 2011 to 2017.

Whelan Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Whelan' is of Irish origin. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name 'Ó Faoláin,' which means 'descendant of Faolán.' Faolán was a popular Irish personal name, derived from the word 'faol' meaning 'wolf.' The name 'Whelan' is commonly associated with County Waterford in Ireland.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Whelan' is most commonly found in Ireland, particularly in County Waterford. It can also be found in other parts of Ireland and among the Irish diaspora in countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Whelan' include 'O'Phelan,' 'O'Faoláin,' 'O'Faelain,' 'Whalen,' 'O'Faoileain,' 'Faolin,' 'Phalen,' 'Phalon,' and 'Phellin.'
Migration and ImmigrationPeople with the surname 'Whelan' have migrated and immigrated to various countries, particularly during periods of Irish emigration. Many 'Whelans' can be found among the Irish diaspora in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.