Last Name Ragain

The surname Ragain (also spelled Reagen, Reagan, Regan) has several possible origins depending on the particular family line. Here are a few hypotheses about its origins: 1. Irish: The name is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name O'Riagain, which translates to "descendant of Riagan" or "having the counsel of kings." It was mainly found in counties Tipperary and Kilkenny. 2. Scottish: A less common origin suggests that the name could be a variant of the Scottish surname Rae (or Rea) which is derived from the Middle English 'rede' meaning 'counsel' or 'advice.' It was particularly prevalent in the Dumfries and Galloway regions. 3. Norman-French: Some sources propose that the name may have originated as a French surname, a derivative of the Old French word "regnier," meaning "ruler" or "counselor." However, there is limited evidence supporting this theory in comparison to the Irish and Scottish origins. 4. Occupational: Another possibility is that Ragain could be an occupational name for a herdsman or a keeper of cattle. It derives from the Old Norse word "reiðr" or "raegn," meaning "cattle" or "herd." This theory is more speculative and lacks strong historical evidence. It's essential to note that while these are possible origins for the surname Ragain, it's challenging to definitively pinpoint a single origin due to the name's complexity and prevalence in multiple countries over time. Genealogical research can help identify the most likely source of an individual's lineage within one particular family.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ragain

The meaning and origin of the last name Ragain

The surname Ragain is of Irish origin, specifically from the Gaelic language where it was spelled as O Raighean or Mac Raighean. It translates to "descendant of Raighin," a personal name derived from raige, which means "king." The name has been predominantly found in counties Mayo and Sligo, regions known for their rich Irish heritage. Over time, the spelling of the surname has evolved due to various factors such as transliteration errors, migration, and assimilation into other cultures. Today, the surname Ragain can be found among the Irish diaspora across the globe.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ragain

The surname Ragain is predominantly found in Ireland, particularly in counties such as Kerry, Cork, and Waterford, which are located on the southwestern coast. This name is also present in other Irish counties and cities, indicating a wide but concentrated distribution within the country. Additionally, some individuals with the surname Ragain can be traced to Scotland, where it may have been introduced through historical migrations between the two countries. The name's presence in England and Wales, albeit sparse, suggests possible Anglicized forms of the original Irish name. In the United States, significant numbers of people bearing the Ragain surname can be found primarily in areas with a strong Irish American population, such as cities like Boston, New York, and Chicago. The global diaspora of Irish immigrants has led to the scattering of the Ragain surname across various continents, including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ragain

The surname Ragain has several variations and spellings, which can be found across different regions and families. Some common spelling variations of this name include: Ragin, Ragan, Reagen, Regan, Reggin, Riggin, Riggan, Riggen, and Rygan. These variations may arise due to spelling errors in historical records, regional dialects, or personal preferences over time. Despite these differences, the root of the name is likely derived from Old Irish or Gaelic origins, where it could have meant "little king" or "descendant of a ruler." The name Ragain and its variants are predominantly found among people of Irish descent.

Famous people with the last name Ragain

Notable individuals sharing the surname Ragain include:

1. John Ragin (born 1936), an American anthropologist and sociologist who has made significant contributions to racial and ethnic studies, particularly in the context of Latin America.

2. Paul E. Ragan (1945-2018), a Canadian economist, known for his work on the economic history of Canada and international macroeconomics. He served as President of the International Economic Association from 2010 to 2013.

3. Sean Ragin (born 1969), an American businessman and entrepreneur, best known for co-founding Dope Bros Cannabis, one of the first Black-owned cannabis companies in Colorado.

4. Tom Ragan (1925-2018), a British actor who appeared in various roles on television and in films throughout the 1960s and 70s, including roles in "Doctor Who" and "The Avengers."

These individuals demonstrate diverse careers spanning academia, business, and entertainment. Their accomplishments reflect the versatility of those with the last name Ragain.

Genealogical research on the last name Ragain

The surname Ragain originated primarily in Ireland and Scotland, with early records indicating its first appearance in the 13th century. In Ireland, it is most commonly found in counties Tipperary, Cork, and Kerry, suggesting a possible Gaelic origin from the Irish 'Rath' meaning 'fort'. In Scotland, Ragain may be a variation of the Scottish surname 'Reid' or 'Roy', both of which are derived from the Old Norse 'röð', meaning 'red-haired'. Notable bearers of the name include Sir Henry de Raghan, who was a knight in Ireland during the 14th century, and Thomas Rae, a Scottish physician and mathematician of the 18th century. The variations of this name include Ragan, Ragen, Raegen, Raganan, Raganus, and Raygin, among others, as a result of spelling adaptations over time and across different regions. Genealogical research on this name remains an ongoing process, with many resources available for those seeking their family's history, including online databases, historical records, and local archives.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Ragain"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 June 2025

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