Discover people named Willam Oneal

The last name Oneal has its origins in the Gaelic surname "Ó Néill," which translates to "descendant of Niall," a name derived from the ancient Irish king Niall of the Nine Hostages, who ruled in the 5th century. This surname is predominantly found in Ireland, particularly in the northern regions, and is associated with the powerful O'Neill dynasty, which played a significant role in Irish history. The meaning of Oneal reflects a lineage of nobility and leadership, as those who initially bore the name were often linked to chieftaincy and military prowess. Variations of the surname include O'Neill, Neill, and Niall, with differences in spelling and pronunciation influenced by regional dialects and the anglicization process. In the United States and other English-speaking countries, the surname has been adopted in various forms, sometimes losing the "O'" prefix, which signifies "descendant of." Overall, the Oneal surname carries a rich historical significance tied to Irish heritage and nobility.