Surname Horan - Meaning and Origin
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Self-Discovery through Genetics: How iGENEA DNA Test Enhanced My Understanding of the Horan Heritage
The iGENEA DNA test reveals more than just the origin or meaning of one's surname; it uncovers deeper layers of self-identity and broadens our understanding of familial lineage. For me, it was about exploring the significance of the surname 'Horan', which has emerged as a profound connection to an intricate web of history.
V. Horan
read moreHoran: What does the surname Horan mean?
The surname Horan is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Ó hÓráin" which means "descendant of Óráin". The personal name Óráin is derived from a diminutive of "ór" meaning "gold". Therefore, Horan can also be interpreted as "little golden one". This last name primarily originated from Counties Galway and Tipperary in Ireland. It is also found in variant spellings like O’Horan, Horain, Hourihane, and O’Hourihane, each with their own separate clans and histories. Notable persons with this surname include Niall Horan, a member of the boy band One Direction.
Order DNA origin analysisHoran: Where does the name Horan come from?
The surname Horan is of Irish origin, specifically originating from the Gaelic Ó hÓráin, meaning "descendant of Órán". The name Órán itself translates to “dark-haired.” This surname was primarily found in County Galway and County Sligo in Ireland. However, around the 17th century, during the time of extensive Irish emigration, many Horans moved to other countries around the world, including the United States, Australia, and England, looking for better survival conditions and opportunities.
Today, the surname is still quite common in Ireland, but is also found in significant numbers in the United States and Great Britain. The international prominence of Niall Horan, a member of the British boy band One Direction, has likely increased recognition of the name in recent years.
Variations of the surname Horan
The surname Horan is predominantly Irish and originates from the Gaelic Ó hEoghráin. The first part of the name, "Ó", stands for "grandson of" or "descendant of". The second part, "Eoghrán", is a personal name that may be derived from the word "eoghunn" meaning "yew tree". "Eoghrán" was anglicized to "Horan".
There are several variants and spellings of the surname Horan, which may have emerged due to dialectal differences or phonetic spellings over time. Variants of the surname include O'Horan, Horin, Hourihane, Huryn, and Hurrane.
Moreover, the surname can be found in other languages but may not share the same etymology. An example is the Spanish surname Oran, which sounds similar to Horan but has a different origin.
It's also common to find different spellings depending on the region. For example, Irish immigrants moving to English-speaking areas may have slightly altered the spelling or pronunciation of their surnames to adapt to their new environment, resulting in names like Horen, Hooran, and Hooron.
Please note that variants of a surname can significantly deviate from the original form over time and location. Thus, while these variants can provide clues to one's ancestry, definitive connections often require more detailed research.
Famous people with the name Horan
- Niall Horan: Irish singer, songwriter, and former member of the boy band One Direction.
- Gerry Horan: Irish sportsman, who served as President of the Gaelic Athletic Association from 2011 to 2015.
- Finley Horan: Professional golfer from Galway, Ireland.
- Frank Horan: Irish-American producer, writer, director and editor of feature films and television shows.
- Patrick Horan: Canadian politician, who served as the Member of Legislative Assembly of Alberta from 1909 to 1913.
- Paudie Horan: Retired Irish hurler who played as a full-back for the Galway senior team.
- Poppy Horan: British actress and former child actress in films and television.
- Cian Horan: Irish Gaelic footballer, who plays with the Galway senior team.
- Lenny Horan: American former professional baseball player and manager.
- Ian Horan: Australian actor, writer, director, and producer.