Last Name Guilfoyle

The surname Guilfoyle has Irish origins. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Ó Giolla Phóil, which translates to "descendant of the devotee of St. Paul." The prefix "Ó" indicates "descendant of," while "Giolla Phóil" means "devotee of St. Paul." Over time, the surname evolved to Guilfoyle through English influence and pronunciation.

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The meaning and origin of the last name Guilfoyle

The surname Guilfoyle is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Giolla Phóil", meaning "son of the servant of St. Paul". The "Mac" prefix indicates "son of" and "Giolla Phóil" refers to a follower or devotee of St. Paul, a significant figure in early Christianity. The name was initially used as a patronymic surname to denote a person descended from an ancestor who was known for their devotion to St. Paul. The spelling variations of the name over time have resulted in different forms, including Guilfoyle, Gilfoyle, Gilfool, and others. It is common for surnames in Ireland to have multiple spellings due to historical influences and oral transmission. The Guilfoyle family likely originated from County Clare in western Ireland, as this region is associated with the surname's early presence. Over time, individuals with this name migrated to different parts of Ireland and beyond, leading to its dispersal and the establishment of Guilfoyle families in various places across the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Guilfoyle

While the last name "Guilfoyle" is not as widespread as some other surnames, it does have a distinctive geographical distribution. The majority of individuals with the surname "Guilfoyle" can be traced back to Ireland, particularly the western region of County Clare. This area is known for its rich Gaelic heritage and strong connection to Irish culture. Over the years, some members of the Guilfoyle family have migrated to other parts of the world, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. In these countries, clusters of individuals with the name can be found, particularly in regions with historically high Irish immigration. Despite its relatively small numbers, the Guilfoyle surname maintains a sense of cultural identity and connection to its Irish roots, making it an important part of the global Irish diaspora.

Variants and spellings of the last name Guilfoyle

The last name Guilfoyle has several variations and spellings, reflecting its Irish origins. One common variant is Gilfoyle, which drops the "u" in the middle of the name. Another variation is Gilfoil, which replaces the "u" with an "i." Other possible variations include Guifoyle, Guilfoile, Guilfoyel, Gillfoyle, and Kilfoyle. These different spellings may have emerged over time due to regional dialects or personal preferences. Additionally, some individuals may have anglicized the name further, resulting in spellings like Guifle, Gelfoil, Gylfoyle, or even Gilpin. As with many surnames, variations can be numerous and diverse, depending on factors such as immigration, historical documentation, or how different families chose to spell or pronounce their name. Nevertheless, all of these variations ultimately trace back to the original Irish surname Guilfoyle.

Famous people with the last name Guilfoyle

Frank Guilfoyle was a prominent figure in the world of American football, renowned for his coaching skills. Known for his strategic mind and exceptional leadership, Guilfoyle made his mark as the head coach of various college and professional teams. He achieved immense success during his tenure with the University of Pennsylvania, leading the Quakers to several conference championships and an undefeated season. Additionally, Guilfoyle served as an assistant coach for the New York Giants, where he played a key role in their Super Bowl victory. Another notable figure bearing the Guilfoyle name is Kimberly Guilfoyle, a well-known American television personality and attorney. Kimberly rose to prominence as a Fox News host, showcasing her expertise in political commentary and analysis. She has since become a familiar face in American media, making regular appearances on popular programs and contributing her insights on various political matters.

Genealogical research on the last name Guilfoyle

The last name Guilfoyle is commonly of Irish origin and is believed to have derived from the Gaelic name "Ó Coigligh," which translates to "descendant of Coigeal." The name is primarily associated with County Clare, located in western Ireland, where the Guilfoyle clan originated. It is understood that the clan was part of the larger Dalcassian tribe, which held significant power in the region. Over time, Guilfoyles have spread across Ireland and beyond, with migration patterns seeing many families settle in the United States, particularly in states like New York, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. The name has various spellings, including Gilfoyle, Guifoil, and Kilfoyle, which can make researching the genealogy challenging. However, dedicated genealogists have traced Guilfoyle family lines through various records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, census data, and church registers to uncover ancestral connections and uncover their history.

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