Irish surnames often reflect the rich history and culture of Ireland. Many surnames are derived from the Gaelic language, with prefixes like O' meaning "descendant of" and Mac meaning "son of." Common surnames include Murphy, O'Sullivan, and Kelly, each with unique meanings and origins tied to specific regions or clans. These surnames can indicate lineage, occupation, or geographical features. For example, Ryan may come from the word for "king," while Doyle is derived from the Gaelic term for "dark." Understanding these surnames provides insight into Ireland's social structure and heritage.