Nolan ~ Ó Nualláin

The Story of the Nolan Name

Nolan is the anglicized form of the Irish Ó Nualláin, meaning “descendant of Nuallán.” The personal name Nuallán comes from nuall, a word associated with a cry or shout and also with fame or renown. The exact meaning has been interpreted in several ways over the centuries.

The Ó Nualláin family became particularly associated with County Carlow, where they were lords of the ancient territory of Forth. Their chiefs held an important position among the Gaelic families of Leinster and were traditionally associated with the inauguration of the kings of Leinster.

Over time, Ó Nualláin became O'Nolan, Nowlan, and eventually Nolan as Irish names were adapted to English. Branches of the family later spread beyond Carlow, including into Connacht, where the name became established in places such as Mayo and Galway.

Behind the familiar name Nolan lies the story of an old Gaelic family rooted in the heart of Leinster. From the ancient territory of Forth to the many places where the name is found today, Ó Nualláin carries the memory of a family whose story reaches deep into Ireland's medieval past.