Shannon (surname)

Shannon is a surname of Irish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic Ó Seanáin, meaning "descendant of Seanán." Seanán itself is a personal name, possibly derived from sean, meaning "old" or "wise." The surname is most commonly found in the counties of Clare, Limerick, and Tipperary in Ireland.

The name has also spread to other English-speaking countries, particularly the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, primarily through emigration.

Notable individuals with the surname Shannon include:

• Claude Shannon, American mathematician and electrical engineer, known as the "father of information theory."
• Del Shannon, American rock and roll singer-songwriter.
• Molly Shannon, American actress and comedian.
• Monica Shannon, American children's author.
• Peggy Shannon, American actress.