Mullin

Mullin is a surname of Irish origin that is also used as a place-name in some English-speaking countries. The name derives from Gaelic elements associated with Maol, meaning “devotee” or “tonsured one,” and from personal or family forms such as Maolán or Ó Maoláin, indicating “descendant of Maolán.” The Anglicized form Mullin is one of several spellings that emerged during Gaelic-to-English transliteration, with related variants including Mullins and Maulin appearing in different regions.

The surname is found in Ireland and among communities of the Irish diaspora, particularly in the United States and Canada, reflecting emigration from Ireland over the past few centuries. In some cases, Mullin also appears in toponymy where locations bear the name due to historical associations with bearers of the surname.

Notable people with the surname Mullin have been active in a range of fields, including politics, sports, business, and the arts, among others. The name also appears in fictional works and in genealogical contexts as researchers trace family histories.

See also Mullins (surname) and the Gaelic roots connected to Maolán.