Young is a descriptive name that became part of the settled population of Ireland.
Where does the Young name come from?
Young is a descriptive surname from the Old English geong, “young” — used to distinguish the younger of two people of the same name, often a son from his father. It is one of the most common descriptive names in England and Scotland, and in Ireland it sometimes also rendered Gaelic names containing óg, “young,” such as Mac an Óig.
Young in Ireland
The name came to Ireland through English and Scottish settlement and became established, particularly in Ulster. As a settled name, Young 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 Younge, Watson, and Barry.
Carry the Young name with you
We craft heritage gifts for thousands of Irish and Scottish family names — garden flags, ornaments, woven blankets and more. To find yours, type it into the search bar at the top of the page, or browse the Young collection here.
Frequently asked questions
Is Young an Irish surname?
Young is of English and Scottish origin and became a settled name in Ireland, especially in Ulster, where it also rendered Gaelic names meaning “young.”
What does Young mean?
It comes from a word meaning “young,” used to distinguish the younger of two of the same name.
Is there a Young family crest?
Families of the name have heraldic traditions; the crest and tartan artwork on our Young products is created as decorative heritage artwork to celebrate the name.
