O’Connor ~ Ó Conchobhair

The Story of the O’Connor Name

O’Connor is the anglicized form of the Irish Ó Conchobhair, meaning “descendant of Conchobhar.” The name Conchobhar was borne by important figures in early Irish tradition, most famously Conchobhar mac Nessa, the legendary king of Ulster in the stories of the Ulster Cycle.

Several distinct O’Connor families developed throughout Ireland, but the most powerful became associated with Connacht, particularly County Roscommon. The O’Connors of Connacht produced a long line of kings, including Ruaidrí Ua Conchobair, who became the last High King of Ireland traditionally recognized by that title.

Over the centuries, Ó Conchobhair became O’Connor in English, but the Irish form preserves the connection to the ancient name Conchobhar. Behind the familiar surname lies a remarkable thread reaching from Ireland’s legendary heroes to its medieval kings.

The story of O’Connor therefore brings together two worlds that are often inseparable in Irish history—the legendary past preserved in story and the historical past preserved in the lives of those who carried the name.