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Last Name Tully

What is the origin of the last name Tully?

The last name Tully is of Irish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Taithligh, which translates to "descendant of Taithleach." The meaning of Taithleach is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have associations with being "peaceful" or "tranquil." The Tully surname is primarily found in Ireland, especially in County Roscommon, where the family is said to have originated. Over time, various branches of the Tully family have dispersed to different parts of Ireland and the world.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Tully

The meaning and origin of the last name Tully

The surname Tully is of Irish origin and has multiple meanings and origins depending on the region and timeframe. One of the most prominent origins is from the Gaelic name "Ó Taithligh," which translates to "descendant of Taithleach." The word "Taithleach" refers to a person who is skilled in making thatched roofs, indicating that the initial bearers of the surname were likely involved in the roofing trade. This origin is prominent in County Tyrone and surrounding areas in Northern Ireland. In some cases, Tully is also an anglicized form of the Gaelic surname "Ó Maoltuile," meaning "descendant of Maoltuile." The root of this name is "maol," which signifies a servant or devotee, possibly relating to religious devotion or servitude. Alternatively, Tully can be derived from the Old Norse personal name "Þórleifr," which combines "Þórr," the Norse god of thunder, with "leifr," meaning "heir" or "descendant." This Norse origin may be more prevalent in areas of Viking influence, such as the Isle of Man. Overall, the surname Tully holds various meanings and origins, primarily linked to Gaelic and Norse roots, reflecting the diverse historical influences on the Irish population.

Geographical distribution of the last name Tully

The last name Tully has a relatively widespread geographical distribution, with concentrations in several regions around the world. In Ireland, the surname Tully is most commonly found in counties Cavan, Roscommon, and Leitrim, where it originated as an anglicized form of the Gaelic name Ó Maolalaidh. In the United States, Tully is more prevalent in states such as New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey, reflecting the historical migration patterns of Irish immigrants. Additionally, the name can be found in smaller numbers across other parts of Europe, including the United Kingdom and France. It is important to note that the distribution of the Tully last name may have been influenced by various factors, including historical events, migration, and assimilation patterns.

Variants and spellings of the last name Tully

The last name Tully can have several variations and spellings. One variation is the spelling Tulley, where an extra "l" is added. Another variation is Tally, where the letter "u" is replaced by "a". A less common spelling variation is Tulle, where the second "l" is removed. Additionally, some individuals may spell it as Tulleigh, with an added "eigh" at the end. Another variation is Tulia, where the "y" is replaced by an "i". Tullie is yet another spelling variation, with the letter "y" being replaced by "ie". Furthermore, Tulli is a possible variation, with the letter "y" being replaced by "i". Lastly, Tullay is another possible spelling, with the last letter "y" being changed to an "ay". These variations and spellings ensure that the last name Tully can be represented in different ways while still maintaining its distinctive characteristics.

Famous people with the last name Tully

One notable figure with the last name Tully is Cicero Tullius, famously known as Cicero, a Roman philosopher, politician, and lawyer. He played a significant role in the late Roman Republic as an influential orator and statesman. Cicero was known for his eloquence, intellectual prowess, and skills in public speaking. His works on rhetoric and philosophy, such as "De Oratore" and "On the Republic," continue to be studied and admired today, making him one of the most prominent figures in ancient history. Additionally, Sean A. Tully is a noteworthy modern-day musician, composer, and record producer. He has worked with various renowned artists and bands, contributing to the creation of critically acclaimed albums across multiple genres. Tully's musical talent and his collaborations have solidified his name in the contemporary music industry.

Genealogical research on the last name Tully

The last name Tully carries a rich genealogical history. The surname can be traced back to ancient Ireland, where it originated from the Gaelic word "O'Taithligh," meaning "peaceful." The Tully clan was a sept of the powerful O'Connor family, and they held their ancestral lands in County Roscommon. Over the centuries, the Tullys established themselves as prominent landowners and leaders within their community. They played significant roles in local politics and often held positions of authority within the region. As Ireland experienced waves of emigration in the 19th century, many Tullys left their homeland, seeking new opportunities in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. Today, descendants of the Tully clan can be found worldwide, each carrying a deep connection to their Irish origins. The study of Tully genealogy provides a fascinating insight into the migration patterns and historical developments of the family over the years.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 9 June 2025

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