Hunt is an old occupational name that became part of the settled population of Ireland, with a notable place in the country’s cultural life.
Where does the Hunt name come from?
Hunt is an occupational surname of English origin, from the Old English hunta, a hunter — a name for someone who hunted game, whether for a lord or for a living. In some Irish cases it also stood in for the Gaelic names Ó Fiaich or Mac Fhiaich, by translation of a word linked to hunting.
Hunt in Ireland
The name became established in several parts of the country, particularly in Munster. It is well remembered through John Hunt, the antiquarian and collector whose collection forms the heart of the Hunt Museum in Limerick. As a settled name, Hunt is found today across Ireland and among the diaspora in the United States, Canada, Australia and Britain.
Related Irish family names
You may also like Howard, Heath, and Barry.
Carry the Hunt name with you
We craft heritage gifts for thousands of Irish and Scottish family names — ornaments, garden flags, woven blankets and more. To find yours, type it into the search bar at the top of the page, or browse the Hunt collection here.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hunt an Irish surname?
Hunt is of English origin and became a settled name in Ireland, particularly in Munster, sometimes also standing in for a Gaelic name.
What does Hunt mean?
It is an occupational name from the Old English hunta, meaning a hunter.
Is there a Hunt family crest?
Families of the name have heraldic traditions; the crest and tartan artwork on our Hunt products is created as decorative heritage artwork to celebrate the name.
