Smith surname: meaning and origin
Smith means son of the smith (gabha, smith). It is a native Gaelic Irish family from Ulster.
| Irish form | Mac Gabhann / Ó Gabhann |
|---|---|
| Meaning | son of the smith (gabha, smith) |
| Home region | Ulster (Ulster) |
| Origin | Gaelic |
| Variants | Gowan, McGowan |
History of the Smith name
Smith is often an English translation of Mac Gabhann, meaning son of the smith. The same Irish name also gave McGowan.
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 Smith mean?
Smith (Irish: Mac Gabhann or Ó Gabhann) means son of the smith (gabha, smith).
What is the Irish spelling of Smith?
The Irish-language form of Smith is Mac Gabhann or Ó Gabhann.
Where is the surname Smith from?
Smith is a native Gaelic Irish family, associated with Ulster in Ulster.
What are other spellings of Smith?
Related spellings and forms include Gowan, McGowan.