The Ó Dálaigh surname is one of Ireland's oldest surnames and originates from the early 12th century at the latest.

 

Similar to other Gaelic surnames Ó Dálaigh is the genitive form of Dálach. Dálach being a personal name and Ó Dálaigh meaning literally 'from Dálach'. The surname originated in County Westmeath in Ireland with the establishment of the first sept or clan to bear the surname. The territory the clan controlled was called Corca Adaimh. It is believed that the clan may have been forced to move from Corca Adaimh due to the Norman invasion. Whatever the reason, from the 13th century on the clan established branches in Sligo, Roscommon and Clare.

 

The clan was also prominent in Cork, particularly Rinn Mhuintir Bháire (Sheep's Head penninsula in West Cork), from the 11th century. It is not clear whether the Corca Adaimh branch established septs in Cork or whether the surname emerged there independently. Although DNA analysis is currently being used to investigate this.

 

The surname is now among the top 25 in Ireland with at least 17,000 individuals carrying the name in Ireland and countless more, with multiple variations of the surname, across the world.

 

The Ó Dálaigh coat of arms consists of the royal emblem of the lion, two red hands, an oak tree and a hound. A predominant theory surrounding the coat of arms is that the lion derives from King Conaire, a prehistoric figure who may have been seen as the clans most ancient ancestor. Conaire's residence was called 'Bruidhin Da Derg', meaning the fortress of the red god or goddess: this would explain the red hands. The oak tree and hound may derive from 'Curoi Mac Daire' who may have been believed to be the clans divine ancestor. Dair meaning 'oak-tree' and Cu giving us the 'hound'.

 

This brief overview of the Ó Dálaigh surname barely scratches the surface of its history. It is a history that holds immeasurable cultural and historical significance. There is a wealth of historical stories, literature and music associated with the Ó Dálaigh history. There is also a great deal of personal value to be achieved by studying our individual genealogy.

 

The Ó Dálaigh Clan Society was registered with Clans of Ireland (the official authority for the representation and authentication of Irish Clans) in 2013. It is our aim to establish an active and vibrant community of members which will enable us to collectively tap in to the cultural and personal value our surname holds.

 

We invite you to join us as we set about establishing the clan.

 

In Strength and Swiftness,