OBrien

OBrien is a surname of Irish origin. It represents the anglicized form of the Gaelic Ó Briain, meaning "descendant of Brian." The name is traditionally associated with Brian Boru, the high king of Ireland, and with the O'Brien dynasty of the Dál gCais who ruled parts of Thomond (modern counties Clare and Limerick).

Throughout the centuries the surname spread beyond Ireland through migration to Britain, North America, Australia, and other regions. Today it remains common among people of Irish descent. Variants include O'Brien, O'Brian, Obrien, and O'Bryan; some genealogical records preserve the Gaelic Ó Briain.

Notable bearers and fictional characters with the surname include Conan O'Brien, American television host and comedian; Ed O'Brien, English musician with the band Radiohead; Pat O'Brien, name of several public figures in broadcasting and sports. In fiction, Miles O'Brien is a Star Trek character who serves as the Enterprise-D's chief of operations and later holds a similar role on Deep Space Nine. George Orwell's 1984 features a Party member named O'Brien who acts as an interrogator and mentor to Winston Smith.