McNamara is one of the great names of County Clare, a Gaelic family of the sea-hounds of Thomond.
Where does the McNamara name come from?
McNamara is an anglicised form of the Gaelic Mac Conmara, “son of Conmara” — a name combining cú (hound) with mara (of the sea), in effect “hound of the sea.” The family belongs to the Dalcassian stock of Thomond.
The McNamaras of Clancullen
The McNamaras were lords of Clancullen in County Clare and were second only to the O’Briens among the families of Thomond, with the hereditary right of inaugurating the O’Brien kings. They built many castles, including the great tower house at Bunratty and Knappogue. As one of the historic names of Clare, McNamara is found today across Ireland and among the diaspora in the United States, Canada, Australia and Britain.
Did you know?
- McNamara comes from the Gaelic Mac Conmara.
- It means “hound of the sea.”
- The McNamaras were lords of Clancullen in Clare.
- They inaugurated the O’Brien kings of Thomond.
- They built Bunratty and Knappogue castles.
Related Irish family names
You may also like McInerney, McGrath, and Barry.
Frequently asked questions
Is McNamara an Irish surname?
Yes — McNamara is a Gaelic Irish surname, from Mac Conmara, the lords of Clancullen in County Clare.
What does McNamara mean?
It means “hound of the sea,” from cú (hound) and mara (of the sea).
Is there a McNamara family crest?
Families of the name have heraldic traditions.
Family history enthusiasts can find a Lords of Clancullion tartan blanket, mugs, and other crest gifts honouring this Clare lordship in our McNamara Irish family gifts collection.