Surnames derived from Personal Peculiarities or Attributes

Robert E. Matheson
Special Report on Surnames in Ireland
1909
Chapter III | Start of chapter

5. Surnames derived from Personal Peculiarities or Attributes, such as:—

Celtic Names

Roe,

(Ruadh—red).

Duff,

(Dubh—black).

Lauder,

(Laidir—strong).

Daly,

(Dall—blind).

McGirr,

(Gor—short).

Casey,

(Cathaiseach—valiant).

Dempsey,

(Diomusach—arrogant).

Brody,

(Brodach—proud).

Corcoran,

(Corcurach—purple or red).

English Names

Black.
Brown.
Browne.
Fair.
Gray.
Jolly.
Little.
Lyttle.
Long.
Meek.
Merry.
Short.
Shortt.
Small.
Strong.
Swift.
White.
Wise.
Wyse.