Sullivan Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Sullivan come from? What does the surname Sullivan mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Sullivan and family migration on YourRoots Map.
O'Sullivan, Sullivant
Surname Sullivan Origin: What does the last name Sullivan mean?
The surname Sullivan is of Irish origin, with approximately 78 percent of Sullivans residing in the United States, making it the 105th most common surname according to the 2010 US census. The name is an anglicised form of O'Sullivan, and due to immigration out of Ireland, it is most common in North America, Australia, and Britain.
YourRoots data confirms the early presence of the Sullivan surname in Ireland dating back to the 16th century. The frequency of Sullivan family records increased in the United States from the 17th century onwards, indicating an early migration of individuals or families with the surname from Ireland to the United States. Today, the Sullivan surname can be found primarily in the United States, as well as in countries like Ireland, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, reflecting the global dispersion of individuals and families with this surname.
Sullivan Last Name History: Where did the last name Sullivan come from?
Origin of Sullivan Surname: Where does the last name Sullivan originate from?
The data from YourRoots indicates that the earliest records of the surname Sullivan originate from Ireland in the early 16th century. Please note that these records exclusively track the exact spelling of "Sullivan" in the YourRoots database and do not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Sullivan: What does the Sullivan surname history look like in the early days?
The “Sullivan” surname maintained a significant presence in Ireland from the 16th century onwards. However, the data from YourRoots shows that the frequency of Sullivan family records began to increase in the United States from the 17th century. This suggests an early migration of individuals or families with the Sullivan surname from Ireland to the United States.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Sullivan surname today?
The volume of records with the Sullivan surname saw a substantial increase in the United States by the 18th century, and this trend continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the "Sullivan" surname is primarily found in the United States, but it is also present in other countries worldwide, reflecting the global dispersion of individuals and families with this surname. Other countries with a notable volume of Sullivan surname records in the YourRoots database include Ireland, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Explore Sullivan last name heritage and Sullivan surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Sullivan Surame?
Nicole Sullivan
Nicole Julianne Sullivan (April 21, 1970) is an American actor and comedian best known for her roles in popular TV series like MADtv, The King of Queens, Scrubs, Kim Possible, and Black-ish. She has also lent her voice to various animated characters in shows like Buzz Lightyear of Star Command and DC Super Hero Girls.
Erik Per Sullivan
Erik Per Sullivan (July 12, 1991) is an American former actor best known for his role as Dewey on the Fox series Malcolm in the Middle. He also appeared in movies like Christmas with the Kranks and Finding Nemo. Sullivan has kept a low profile since his last acting credit in 2010.
Susan Sullivan
Susan Patricia Sullivan (born Nov 18, 1942) is an American actress best known for her roles in popular TV series such as "Falcon Crest," "Dharma & Greg," and "Castle." She received Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her outstanding performances in various shows.
Yankee Sullivan
Yankee Sullivan (James Ambrose; c. 10 Mar 1811 – 31 May 1856) was a famous bare-knuckle fighter and boxer in the 19th century. He claimed the American bare-knuckle heavyweight champion title for a brief period, known for his fierce fighting style and involvement in political enforcements.
Leslie Sullivan
Leslie Sullivan (11 Apr 1916 - 1978) was an English-born Rhodesian radio host known for his popular morning show on Radio Rhodesia. He emigrated to South Africa as a young man and served in World War II before finding success in radio broadcasting. With his catchphrase "Your little ray of sunshine," he became a beloved media personality in Rhodesia.
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