Where Does the O'Connell Surname Come From?

The spelling O'Connell grew out of Connell, an Irish surname with a long paper trail.

What does the surname O'Connell mean?

At root, the name means “Descendant of Conall”.

Is O'Connell the same name as Connell?

O'Connell simply joins the particle O' to Connell, a habit common in Irish naming. You may also find the name written Connel and Ó Conaill.

Does every O'Connell family have a crest?

Heraldry is personal: arms associated with the Connell surname were borne by specific families, and sharing the name does not mean sharing the blazon.

Research your O'Connell family history with a full surname report and painted coat of arms.