O'Reilly surname: meaning and origin
O'Reilly means descendant of Raghallach, a name of uncertain meaning. It is a native Gaelic Irish family from Cavan (East Breifne).
| Irish form | Ó Raghallaigh |
|---|---|
| Meaning | descendant of Raghallach, a name of uncertain meaning |
| Home region | Cavan (East Breifne) (Ulster) |
| Origin | Gaelic |
| Variants | Reilly, Riley |
History of the O'Reilly name
The O'Reillys were lords of East Breifne, which became County Cavan. The surname is also written Reilly and Riley.
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 O'Reilly mean?
O'Reilly (Irish: Ó Raghallaigh) means descendant of Raghallach, a name of uncertain meaning.
What is the Irish spelling of O'Reilly?
The Irish-language form of O'Reilly is Ó Raghallaigh.
Where is the surname O'Reilly from?
O'Reilly is a native Gaelic Irish family, associated with Cavan (East Breifne) in Ulster.
What are other spellings of O'Reilly?
Related spellings and forms include Reilly, Riley.