Leahy is an Irish surname, originating in Munster, and now found in Cork, Kerry, Limerick, and Tipperary.

It is usually an anglicised form of the Irish language surname Ó Laochdha ("descendant of Laochdha"),[1]: 191  which ultimately derives from Old Irish láechda, láech ("warrior-like, pertaining to a warrior") and appears as a personal sobriquet at least as early as the Book of Lismore (circa 1408–11).[2] However, Leahy may also represent an anglicisation of less common names, including Mac Fhlaithimh and Ó Flaithimh, Mac an Leagha, Ó Leathaigh, Ó Liathaigh, Ó Líthe, Ó Laidhe, Ó Laidhigh, Ó Laithimh, Ó'Lathaigh, Ó Laithmhe, Ó Laochdha, Ó Laoi, Ó Laoidhigh, or Ó Laoithe.[3]

Not to be confused with Lahey which means "Ruler" and is a separate family lineage. Other anglicised forms of the name include Leahey, Lahy, Leehy, Leehey, Lahaie, Lahaye, Lehait,[4]: 15 [1]: 188 [5]: 104–106  Claffey, Laffey, and Lee.[3]

Notable bearers of the name

See also

References

  1. ^ a b MacLysaght, Edward (2005) [1969]. The Surnames of Ireland (6th ed.). Dublin: Irish Academic Press.
  2. ^ "láechda". eDIL: Electronic Dictionary of the Irish Language, c. 700–c. 1700. 2016. Retrieved 12 August 2016.
  3. ^ a b Irish Surname Index, Leahy
  4. ^ Lahaie, Richard (2013). "Le Premier Couple Irlandais de Nouvelle-France". Histoire Québec. 18 (3): 15–18.
  5. ^ Woulfe, Patrick (1922). Sloinnte Gaedheal is Gall: Irish Names and Surnames. Baile áta Cliat: M. H. Mac an Goill 7 a Mác.
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