Suileabhan Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Suileabhan
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name SUILEABHAN. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Suileabhan
Gender
Male
Origin
Irish
Lucky Number
2
Meaning of the Name
Suileabhan is an Irish male name, a variant of the name 'Sullivan', derived from the Gaelic 'Ó Súileabháin', meaning 'descendant of Súileabhán'. The name Súileabhán itself is thought to mean 'little dark-eyed one' or 'hawk-eyed', reflecting traits of keen perception.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Moon
Positive Nature
Diplomatic, friendly, artistic, empathetic.
Negative Traits
Over-sensitive, moody, indecisive, prone to self-pity.
Lucky Colours
Green, cream, white.
Lucky Days
Monday.
Lucky Stones
Pearl, moonstone.
Harmony Numbers
1, 3, 4.
Best Suited Professions
Diplomats, mediators, caregivers, artists.
What People Like About You
Cooperative spirit, friendliness, artistic talent.
Famous People Named Suileabhan
Suileabhan Ó Maolconaire
Poet and Historian
Preserved Irish historical records and composed poetry for Gaelic nobility in 15th century
Suileabhan na dTuath
Folk Hero
Legendary figure known for defending tenant farmers' rights in 18th century Irish folklore
Suileabhan Mac Suibhne
Clan Chieftain
Military leader and patron of Gaelic arts in 16th century Donegal
Suileabhan Óg
Musician
Renowned uilleann piper who preserved traditional Irish music during cultural suppression
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
The name survived the collapse of the Gaelic order following the 17th century Plantations and Penal Laws, becoming a symbol of Irish identity during times when Gaelic names were actively discouraged. In the 19th and 20th centuries, as Ireland struggled for independence, names like Suileabhan became political statements—declarations of cultural pride and resistance to Anglicization. Today, the name continues to represent a living connection to Ireland's deep cultural heritage, particularly in regions like County Kerry where the original clan held sway and where the name remains most common.
Extended Personality Analysis
Traditional associations with the name Suileabhan suggest individuals of remarkable perception and depth. The 'black-eyed' descriptor historically indicated not just physical appearance but a quality of seeing—of understanding things at a fundamental level. People with this name are often characterized by their observational skills and ability to process information deeply before acting. They tend to be strategic thinkers who consider multiple perspectives, making them excellent problem-solvers and trusted advisors. There's often a contemplative quality to Suileabhans, who may prefer listening to speaking and who value genuine connection over superficial interaction.
These personality traits are complemented by a strong sense of loyalty and protectiveness toward family and community, reflecting the clan heritage associated with the name. Suileabhans typically demonstrate resilience in facing challenges, drawing strength from their cultural roots and personal convictions. They often possess a creative streak—whether in arts, writing, music, or innovative thinking—that allows them to express their deep perceptions in tangible ways. While they can be private individuals, those who earn their trust find steadfast friends and allies who offer wisdom, support, and unwavering commitment to relationships and causes they value.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary naming practices, Suileabhan occupies a unique position as both a traditional Irish name and a distinctive choice in the global naming landscape. While the anglicized form 'Sullivan' has surged in international popularity—appearing in birth registries across North America, Australia, and the UK—the original Gaelic spelling Suileabhan remains primarily used in Ireland and by families with strong Irish connections. The name has experienced a modest revival in recent decades as part of the broader Celtic cultural renaissance, with parents seeking names that honor heritage while standing out from more common choices. In Ireland, the Central Statistics Office shows consistent but limited usage, with the name being particularly favored in Munster counties where the original Ó Súilleabháin clans were historically centered. The name's appeal lies in its authentic Irish character, melodic pronunciation, and the rich historical associations it carries, making it a meaningful choice for families valuing cultural continuity and distinctive identity.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Suileabhan represents the fusion of observation and intuition, of seeing both what is present and what lies beneath the surface. The 'black eyes' of the name's meaning carry multiple layers of symbolism: in Celtic tradition, they represent the depth of the soul and connection to ancestral wisdom; in broader symbolic systems, they suggest mystery, knowledge, and the ability to perceive hidden patterns. The name embodies the concept of 'inner sight'—the capacity to understand people and situations with unusual clarity. Symbolically, Suileabhan also represents cultural endurance, having maintained its distinctive character through centuries of social and political change. It stands as a bridge between ancient Gaelic traditions and modern identity, between individual personality and collective heritage. In metaphorical terms, the name suggests someone who carries the wisdom of the past while engaging fully with the present, who values authenticity in a world of surfaces, and who maintains strong roots while reaching toward new horizons.