Walsh Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Walsh come from? What does the surname Walsh mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Walsh and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Walsh Origin: What does the last name Walsh mean?
Walsh, a common Irish surname, originates from the term "Breathnach" in Irish, meaning "Briton" or "foreigner." Soldiers from Britain, particularly Welsh, Cambro-Norman, Cornish, and Cumbrian soldiers, brought the surname to Ireland during and after the Norman invasion. It is the fourth most common surname in Ireland and the 265th most common in the United States. Variants include "Walshe," "Welch," "Welsh," and "Brannagh." The Walsh surname has deep roots in Ireland, with notable families like the Walshs of Ballykilcaven in County Laois and the Walshs of Castlehale in County Kilkenny. The family motto, "Transfixus sed non mortuus," translates to "Pierced but not dead," symbolizing resilience and strength.
YourRoots data traces the Walsh surname back to England in the early 12th century, with a shift in prevalence to Ireland by the 17th century. The frequency of the Walsh surname increased significantly in Ireland by the 18th century, and it later spread to countries like the United States. Today, the Walsh surname is prominently found in the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, reflecting its widespread global presence.
Walsh Last Name History: Where did the last name Walsh come from?
Origin of Walsh Surname: Where does the last name Walsh originate from?
According to the YourRoots database, the earliest record of the surname Walsh is traced back to England in the United Kingdom around the early 12th century. It's important to note, this data is specific to the spelling "Walsh" within the YourRoots database, and does not account for other sources or potential variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Walsh: What does the Walsh surname history look like in the early days?
The Walsh surname maintained a strong association with England from the 12th to 15th century, as per the YourRoots data. However, by the 17th century, the frequency of the Walsh surname began to increase significantly in Ireland. This trend in Ireland continued into the 18th century, indicating a shift in the prevalence of the surname.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Walsh surname today?
As we moved into the 19th century, the volume of records for the Walsh surname dramatically increased in the United States, surpassing other countries. This trend continued into the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century. Today, the Walsh surname is predominantly found in the United States, but also has a noticeable presence in countries like the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, demonstrating its global spread.
Explore Walsh last name heritage and Walsh surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Walsh Surame?
Joe Walsh
Joseph Fidler Walsh (November 20, 1947 - ) is an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter known for his work with the rock band Eagles. He has had a successful solo career and has been part of other bands like James Gang and Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band. Walsh's guitar skills have been praised by music legends, and he was ranked as one of the "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time" by Rolling Stone. With hits like "Rocky Mountain Way" and "Life's Been Good", Walsh has made significant contributions to the music industry over his five-decade career.
Bradley Walsh
Bradley John Walsh (June 4, 1960 - present) is an English actor, comedian, television presenter, singer, and former professional footballer. He is known for his roles in popular TV series such as "Coronation Street," "Law & Order: UK," and "Doctor Who." Walsh has also hosted several game shows like "The Chase" and "Blankety Blank." Additionally, he has released studio albums and participated in charity football matches. With a diverse career spanning acting, presenting, and music, Bradley Walsh continues to entertain audiences with his versatile talents.
J. T. Walsh
James Thomas Patrick Walsh (September 28, 1943 – February 27, 1998) was an American character actor known for his villain roles in films like A Few Good Men, Nixon, and Sling Blade. He received critical acclaim for his stage performances and appeared in over 50 feature films during his career. Walsh's portrayals often offered commentary on American society's power structure, making him a memorable figure in the world of cinema. He sadly passed away at the age of 54 from a heart attack but left behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
Keira Walsh
Keira Fae Walsh (born 8 Apr 1997) is an English professional footballer known for her exceptional skills as a midfielder for Chelsea in the Women's Super League and the England national team. She has achieved numerous titles and accolades, including winning the Women's Super League and the Copa de la Reina. Walsh has also played for top clubs like Manchester City and Barcelona, showcasing her talent on both domestic and international stages. With a strong presence on the field and a knack for both offensive and defensive play, she is recognized as one of the best midfielders in the world.
Louis Walsh
Michael Louis Vincent Walsh (born Aug 5, 1952) is an Irish music manager and television personality known for managing popular pop acts like Boyzone, Westlife, and Jedward. He also served as a judge on talent competition shows like The X Factor and Ireland's Got Talent. Walsh's career in the music industry and television has made him a well-known figure in the entertainment world. With his eye for talent and knack for discovering successful artists, Walsh has left a lasting impact on the music industry and television landscape.
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