O'Connor (surname)
O'Connor is a common Irish surname. It is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic name Ó Conchobhair, meaning "descendant of Conchobhar."
Origin and Meaning:
The personal name Conchobhar is composed of the elements con- meaning "hound" or "wolf" and cobhar meaning "desiring" or "helpful." Therefore, the original name likely meant something akin to "hound of desire" or "helpful hound." Historical figures bearing the name include kings and chieftains, lending the surname an association with nobility and leadership.
Distribution:
O'Connor is one of the most numerous surnames in Ireland, particularly in the province of Connacht. Due to emigration, it is also found in significant numbers in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Great Britain.
Variations:
Common variations of the surname include Connor, Connors, O'Conner, and O'Conners. These variations arose through different Anglicizations and phonetic spellings over time.
Notable People:
The surname O'Connor has been borne by many notable individuals in various fields, including:
- Flannery O'Connor (1925-1964): American novelist and short story writer.
- Sinéad O'Connor (1966-2023): Irish singer-songwriter.
- Sandra Day O'Connor (1930-2023): Former Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States.
- Rory O'Connor (born 1976): Irish comedian and actor, one half of Rory's Stories.
- Gavin O'Connor (born 1963): American film director, screenwriter, and producer.
Heraldry:
The O'Connor surname is associated with various coats of arms. The specific coat of arms used typically depends on the particular sept (branch of the family) to which the individual belongs. Common elements include oak trees, lions, and eagles, reflecting the family's history and heritage. The O'Connor Don crest is recorded as an oak tree with a broken spear through it.