Cathraigh

Cathraigh is a surname of Irish origin. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic placename Cathair, meaning "stone fort" or "city". The name likely originated as a toponymic surname, indicating a person who lived near or came from a place with such a feature. Variations of the spelling may exist, reflecting different transliterations of the original Gaelic. Historically, families bearing this surname would have been concentrated in certain regions of Ireland, though the diaspora has spread the name globally. The etymology of Cathraigh points to a connection with ancient Irish fortifications and settlements. As with many ancient Irish surnames, detailed genealogical records for early bearers can be scarce. The modern distribution of the surname can be traced through census data and historical migration patterns. Individuals with the Cathraigh surname are found in Ireland, as well as in countries with significant Irish emigration, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The name itself evokes a sense of history and a connection to the land of Ireland.