Connelly

Connelly is a surname of Irish origin, commonly derived from Gaelic Ó Conghalaigh or Ó Conghaile and closely related to Connolly. The name generally signifies “descendant of Conghalach,” a Gaelic personal name associated with valor. The modern spelling Connelly arose through anglicization and migratory records, becoming established as a distinct family surname.

It is most prevalent in Ireland and in nations with large Irish diaspora, notably the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Within these populations, historical migration patterns have linked many Connelly families to specific Irish regions where Gaelic naming traditions were strongest.

While primarily a surname, Connelly may appear in place names, institutions, or fictional works. In genealogical and scholarly contexts, it is treated as a variant of Gaelic-origin surnames and is often studied alongside related forms to trace lineage. Related spellings reflect historical transcription and regional pronunciation, and may include Connolly or other orthographic variants.

In summary, Connelly denotes a family name with Irish roots, widely distributed through international migration, and connected to a family of closely related Gaelic-derived surnames.