Origin and Meaning of Whelan
Meaning & Origin
Descendant of the Valiant One
Origin: Irish - Derived from the Gaelic surname 'O'Faolain', meaning 'descendant of Faolán', where 'Faolán' translates to 'little wolf'.
Interesting Facts
- Whelan is a common surname in Ireland and can also be used as a first name, particularly among those of Irish descent.
- In Ireland, the name Whelan reflects a strong cultural identity, celebrating values such as bravery and tenacity associated with wolves.
- Notable bearers include Irish singer-songwriter and musician, Luka Bloom, born Kevin Barry in 1966, who has performed under the Whelan surname.
- The popularity of Whelan as a first name has been modest, with spikes in usage in the late 20th and early 21st centuries due to cultural trends emphasizing traditional names.
- Variations of the name include Faolan, which is also used as a given name in Ireland, emphasizing the wolf significance.