Súilleabháin

Súilleabháin is an Irish surname, a anglicized form of the Gaelic Ó Súilleabháin. The name is derived from the Gaelic word "súil," meaning "eye," and "abhán," meaning "little," or possibly "one-eyed." The O'Sullivan clan was one of the most powerful Gaelic families in Munster, Ireland, particularly in the counties of Cork and Kerry. Their territory was known as the Kingdom of Desmond.

Historically, the Súilleabháin family was prominent in military and political leadership. Many notable figures throughout Irish history have borne this surname, contributing to various aspects of Irish culture and society. The name is still very common in Ireland today, and has spread to many other parts of the world due to Irish emigration. Variations in spelling exist, including Sullivan, O'Sullivan, and others, reflecting different anglicization processes over centuries. The family crest often features elements such as a dexter hand holding a sword and a lion rampant.