Grattan is a name that rings through the history of the Irish parliament, carried by one of its greatest orators.
Where does the Grattan name come from?
Grattan is generally explained as a locative surname of English origin, from a place-name built from elements meaning “great hill” or “gravel hill.” It was carried to Ireland by settler families and put down lasting roots, particularly in Dublin.
The Grattans in Ireland
The name is forever associated with Henry Grattan, the eighteenth-century statesman and orator who led the campaign for legislative independence — the parliament of that era is still remembered as “Grattan’s Parliament.” As a documented Anglo-Irish name, Grattan is found today in Ireland and among the diaspora in the United States, Canada, Australia and Britain.
Did you know?
- Grattan is generally a place-name meaning “great hill” or “gravel hill.”
- It is a locative surname of English origin.
- Henry Grattan was a famous statesman and orator.
- The parliament of his era is remembered as “Grattan’s Parliament.”
- The name survives today in Ireland and across the diaspora.
Related Irish family names
You may also like Gore, Gough, and Barry.
Carry the Grattan name with you
We craft heritage gifts for thousands of Irish and Scottish family names — mugs, woven blankets, ornaments and more. To find yours, type it into the search bar at the top of the page, or browse the Grattan collection here.
Frequently asked questions
Is Grattan an Irish surname?
Grattan is of English origin and became a notable Anglo-Irish name, especially associated with Dublin and the statesman Henry Grattan.
What does Grattan mean?
It is generally a place-name meaning “great hill” or “gravel hill.”
Is there a Grattan family crest?
Families of the name have heraldic traditions; the crest and tartan artwork on our Grattan products is created as decorative heritage artwork to celebrate the name.
