O'Brien Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname O'Brien come from? What does the surname O'Brien mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name O'Brien and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname O'Brien Origin: What does the last name O'Brien mean?
The surname O'Brien is of Irish origin and has a long history dating back to the early 11th century, according to YourRoots data. The name has remained closely associated with Ireland through the centuries, with records of O'Brien families also appearing in the United States, indicating an early spread across the Atlantic. By the 19th century, the surname O'Brien had significantly grown in the United States, surpassing its native Ireland, and continues to be prominent in both countries today.
O'Brien Last Name History: Where did the last name O'Brien come from?
Origin of O'Brien Surname: Where does the last name O'Brien originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname O'Brien first appeared in records from Ireland around the early 11th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “O'Brien” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name O'Brien: What does the O'Brien surname history look like in the early days?
The “O'Brien” surname remained closely associated with Ireland from the 11th through the 18th century. YourRoots data also shows O'Brien family records appearing in the United States, indicating an early spread across the Atlantic over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the O'Brien surname today?
By the 19th century, the volume of records with the O'Brien surname grew significantly in the United States, surpassing its native Ireland. This trend continued into the 20th and 21st centuries. The “O'Brien” surname remains prominent in the United States and Ireland, and has also been found in various regions worldwide. It appears in a number of countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Explore O'Brien last name heritage and O'Brien surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With O'Brien Surame?
Conan O'Brien
Conan Christopher O'Brien (April 18, 1963 - ) is an American television host, comedian, writer, and producer. He is best known for hosting late-night talk shows like Late Night with Conan O'Brien and Conan. O'Brien also worked on Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons before becoming a successful late-night host.
Dylan O'Brien
Dylan Rhodes O'Brien (born Aug 26, 1991) is an American actor known for his roles in hit franchises like Teen Wolf and Maze Runner. He has also starred in various films, showcasing his versatility and talent. O'Brien's journey from YouTube to Hollywood is an inspiring tale of success in the entertainment industry.
Richard O'Brien
Richard Timothy O'Brien (Mar 25, 1942 - ) is a British-New Zealand actor, writer, and musician. He created The Rocky Horror Show in 1973, leading to the film The Rocky Horror Picture Show in 1975. O'Brien also co-wrote Shock Treatment (1981) and appeared in various TV shows and films.
Edmond O'Brien
Eamon Joseph O'Brien (September 10, 1915 – May 9, 1985) was an accomplished American actor and film director. He won an Academy Award and two Golden Globe Awards during his nearly 40-year career in Hollywood. O'Brien starred in iconic films like "The Barefoot Contessa" and "Seven Days in May," showcasing his talent as both a leading man and character actor.
Margaret O'Brien
Angela Maxine O'Brien (born Jan 15, 1937) was an American actress known professionally as Margaret O'Brien. She began her career as a child star in feature films for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, winning a Juvenile Academy Award in 1944. O'Brien appeared in iconic films like "Meet Me in St. Louis" and transitioned to television in her later career.
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