Moynihan Surname Origin & Meaning
/moy-NEE-han/Moynihan is most likely a surname of Irish origin.
This analysis is AI-assisted and may contain errors. It is not individually reviewed by an onomast. Check important details against reliable sources or a qualified researcher. Analysis generated on August 15, 2026.
Surname Origin
The surname Moynihan is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic 'Ó Muimhneacháin,' meaning 'descendant of Muimhneachán,' a personal name possibly related to Munster or the Munster region. It is a traditional Irish surname with roots in Gaelic clans and families, often associated with County Cork and County Kerry.
Surname Ethnicity & Nationality
These estimates show the cultural and national origins most closely associated with this name. They describe the name, not an individual's identity.
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Irish (Irish) 85% -
American (Irish-American) 10% -
British (Irish-British) 5%
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Surname Details
- Surname: Moynihan
Famous People Named Moynihan
Daniel Patrick Moynihan was a prominent American politician and diplomat, serving as a U.S. Senator from New York and an ambassador to the United Nations. Another notable Moynihan is John Moynihan, an Irish-American artist known for his contemporary paintings. Additionally, Patrick Moynihan was a renowned Irish historian and author.
Moynihan Numerology
Numerology is provided for entertainment only and is not scientific.
Soul Urge Number: 9
People with this name tend to be: Humanitarian, generous and compassionate.
Sources & Methodology
US popularity data comes from the Social Security Administration. Origin and ethnicity estimates are generated from name patterns and cultural distributions using AI-assisted analysis.
These results are estimates, not definitive genealogical findings. Learn more about our methodology.