Lafferty

Lafferty is a surname of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Ó Laithbheartaigh, meaning "descendant of Laithbheartach." The personal name Laithbheartach itself is composed of elements that can be interpreted as "lament" or "grey" and "upholder" or "lord." The O'Lafferty sept was a powerful Gaelic clan historically located in the county of Donegal in Ulster, Ireland. They were known for their chieftainship and control of significant territories in the region.

Over centuries, the surname spread from Ireland to other parts of the world, notably to Great Britain, the United States, Canada, and Australia, through emigration. As with many surnames, variations in spelling have emerged, including Lafferty, Laferty, and others. Individuals bearing the name Lafferty have contributed to various fields, including politics, sports, arts, and sciences. Notable figures with this surname include Francis Lafferty, an American politician, and Scott Lafferty, a professional ice hockey player. The surname continues to be present in various communities globally, carrying its historical roots from the Irish Gaelic tradition.