Devlin Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Devlin come from? What does the surname Devlin mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Devlin and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Devlin Origin: What does the last name Devlin mean?
The surname Devlin, deriving from the Gaelic Irish family of Uí Néill chiefs in County Tyrone, has origins linked to the noble blood of Aileach, specifically from Develin, denoting "Raging Valour." The name has various Anglicized forms like Develon, Devlin, and Dobhailéin, reflecting its historical ties to Irish royalty. Records indicate the Devlin surname's presence in Northern Ireland since the early 16th century, with significant growth in Ireland and the United States from the 17th to the 19th centuries. By the 20th century, Devlin family records were found in countries like Australia and Canada, highlighting its global spread.
According to YourRoots data, the Devlin surname's historical significance remains closely associated with Northern Ireland and Ireland, reflecting a rich heritage dating back to the Gaelic Irish nobility. The name's global presence extends to regions like the United States, Australia, and Canada, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread influence across different cultures and territories.
Devlin Last Name History: Where did the last name Devlin come from?
Origin of Devlin Surname: Where does the last name Devlin originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Devlin first appeared in records from Northern Ireland (United Kingdom) around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Devlin spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Devlin: What does the Devlin surname history look like in the early days?
The Devlin surname remained closely associated with Northern Ireland (United Kingdom) in the 16th century and saw significant growth in Ireland and Northern Ireland (United Kingdom) from the 17th to the 19th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Devlin family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Devlin surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Devlin surname grew significantly in Northern Ireland (United Kingdom), Ireland, the United States, Australia, and Canada. The Devlin surname remains prominent in these regions. It appears in many countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Explore Devlin last name heritage and Devlin surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Devlin Surame?
Dean Devlin
Dean Francis Devlin (born Aug 27, 1962) is an American screenwriter, producer, director, and actor known for his collaborations with director Roland Emmerich. He co-founded Centropolis Entertainment and Electric Entertainment, working on hits like Stargate, Independence Day, and Godzilla. Devlin also produced TV series like Leverage and The Librarians. He made his directorial debut with Geostorm and later directed Bad Samaritan. Devlin's diverse career includes projects in film, television, and video games, showcasing his creativity and talent across different mediums.
Janet Devlin
Janet Maureen Aoife Devlin (born November 12, 1994) is a Northern Irish singer-songwriter known for competing on the eighth season of The X Factor in 2011, where she finished in fifth place. She released her debut album "Hide & Seek" in 2013 and her second studio album "Confessional" in 2020. Devlin gained popularity for her unique voice and emotional performances on the show, captivating audiences with her heartfelt renditions of popular songs.
Michael J. Devlin
Michael John Devlin (born November 19, 1965) is an American criminal convicted of kidnapping and child sexual abuse of two young boys, Shawn Hornbeck and Ben Ownby. He is serving 74 life sentences plus 2,020 years at Crossroads Correctional Center in Cameron, Missouri. His crimes shocked the nation and led to a high-profile trial that resulted in numerous convictions. Despite his previous life as a seemingly normal member of society, Devlin's dark actions forever changed his legacy.
Es Devlin
Esmeralda Devlin (born Sep 24, 1971) is an English artist and stage designer known for her innovative work in theatre and concert design. She has won prestigious awards like the Tony Award and two Olivier Awards for her set designs in productions like The Lehman Trilogy. Devlin has collaborated with renowned artists like Kanye West and designed sets for major events like the London Olympics and the Super Bowl Halftime Show. Her unique style combines sculpture, light, and technology to create immersive experiences for audiences worldwide. Devlin continues to push boundaries in the world of design, making her a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
The Devil and Max Devlin
The Devil and Max Devlin (Full Name) is a 1981 American fantasy–comedy film produced by Walt Disney Productions, directed by Steven Hilliard Stern and starring Elliott Gould, Bill Cosby, and Susan Anspach. The film follows the story of Max Devlin, a shady landlord who strikes a deal with the devil to redeem his own soul by convincing three innocent youngsters to sell their souls. The movie was controversial for Disney at the time and influenced the establishment of Touchstone and Hollywood Pictures for mature audience films. Featuring a talented cast and a unique twist on the Faustian tale, it remains a cult classic in the Disney film library.
All images displayed on this page are sourced from Wikipedia or Wikimedia Commons.We use these images under their respective Creative Commons or public domain licenses. Wherever applicable, author attributions and license information are provided. If you believe an image is used incorrectly or outside its license terms, please contact us so that we can review and correct the issue.