Duffy surname: meaning and origin
Duffy means descendant of Dubhthach, from dubh, meaning dark or black. It is a native Gaelic Irish family from Monaghan and Roscommon.
| Irish form | Ó Dubhthaigh |
|---|---|
| Meaning | descendant of Dubhthach, from dubh, meaning dark or black |
| Home region | Monaghan and Roscommon (Ulster) |
| Origin | Gaelic |
| Variants | Duffey, O'Duffy |
History of the Duffy name
Duffy is especially associated with Monaghan, though the Roscommon Duffys held the hereditary guardianship of a saint's relics.
More surnames from Ulster
- BoyleÓ Baoighill · descendant of Baoighill
- BradyMac Brádaigh · son of Brádach
- McBrideMac Giolla Bhríde · son of the devotee of Saint Brigid
- ClarkeÓ Cléirigh · descendant of the cleric
- O'DohertyÓ Dochartaigh · descendant of Dochartach
- O'DonnellÓ Dónaill · descendant of Dónall
Frequently asked questions
What does the surname Duffy mean?
Duffy (Irish: Ó Dubhthaigh) means descendant of Dubhthach, from dubh, meaning dark or black.
What is the Irish spelling of Duffy?
The Irish-language form of Duffy is Ó Dubhthaigh.
Where is the surname Duffy from?
Duffy is a native Gaelic Irish family, associated with Monaghan and Roscommon in Ulster.
What are other spellings of Duffy?
Related spellings and forms include Duffey, O'Duffy.