Mhaonaigh

Mhaonaigh is an Irish Gaelic surname that appears in its genitive form in Irish-language use. The masculine form of the family name is Ó Mhaonaigh, while the feminine form used in marriage or for women is Ní Mhaonaigh, as exemplified by the well-known Gaelic singer Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh.

The name is rooted in the Gaelic tradition of patronymic surnames. It is most strongly associated with the Ulster region, particularly County Donegal, where many Irish-speaking communities (Gaeltacht areas) have historically borne the name. Today, Mhaonaigh can be found in Ireland and among Irish diaspora communities around the world.

In the cultural sphere, Mhaonaigh is recognized in connection with traditional Irish music through Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, a prominent singer and co-founder of the band Altan. Her prominence has helped bring attention to the surname within contemporary Irish and Gaelic-language arts.

See also: Ó Mhaonaigh.