Irish Surname - Earl
Origin of the Irish Surname Earl
The surname Earl is not an Irish surname, but rather of English and Scottish origin. It derives from the Old English word "eorl" or the Old Norse word "jarl," both of which mean "nobleman" or "chieftain." This surname was given to those who held a high-ranking position or status in society. The Earl surname and its variations are relatively rare in Ireland but can still be found in some areas, particularly in Ulster, where English and Scottish settlers arrived during the plantation period.
Famous People with the Surname Earl
- Keith Earls is an Irish rugby union player who has played for both Munster and the Ireland national team. Born on October 2, 1987, in Limerick, Ireland, he is a versatile player known for his speed and agility on the field. He primarily plays as a wing or outside center. Earls made his debut for the Ireland national team in 2008 and has since earned over 90 caps, representing Ireland in multiple Six Nations Championships and Rugby World Cups.
- Stacy Earl is an American singer who gained popularity in the early 1990s. She released several singles, including "Love Me All Up" and "Romeo & Juliet," which charted on the US Billboard Hot 100.
- Robert Earl is a British businessman and founder of the Planet Hollywood restaurant chain. He has also been involved in the hospitality industry, with investments in hotels and resorts worldwide.
- Jim Earl is an American comedian and Emmy-winning writer, known for his work on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. He has also written for several other television programs and contributed to various publications.
- Kate Earl is an American singer-songwriter. She released her debut album, "Fate Is the Hunter," in 2005 and has continued to produce music, blending elements of pop, rock, and folk.
Variations of the Irish Surname Earl
- Earle: A variation of the surname Earl, which is more commonly found in England and America.
- Earles: A patronymic form of the surname Earl, denoting "son of Earl."
- Erle: A rare variation of the surname Earl, more commonly found in England.
Coat of Arms and Motto of the Irish Surname Earl
As the surname Earl is of English and Scottish origin, it does not have an Irish coat of arms or motto. However, there are multiple coats of arms and mottos associated with the surname in its English and Scottish contexts. One example of an English coat of arms for the Earl surname features a silver shield with a red cross and five red crescents. The Scottish coat of arms for the Earle variation features a blue shield with a silver chevron and three silver crescents. Mottos associated with the surname Earl and its variations may vary depending on the specific family lineage.
Please Note
There is often limited information available on a specific coat of arms and motto for an Irish surname. Sometimes there are many variations, sometimes none, we have compiled a representative, but by no means exhaustive, selection. Please visit our Coat of Arms and Motto page for more information.
DNA And Your Irish Roots
- DNA and your Irish Heritage
- DNA, Discovery and Functions
- Types of DNA tests
- DNA testing companies
- Y-chromosome and Father's Ancestral Line
- Mitochondrial DNA and Mother's Ancestral Line
- DNA and Ethnicity
