O'Flaherty is a surname of Irish origin, commonly associated with families from County Kerry and County Clare. The name is derived from the Gaelic "Ó Flaithbhearta," meaning "descendant of Flaithbertach," a personal name that translates to "ruler" or "prince." In addition to being a surname, O'Flaherty is also linked to various historical figures and cultural references in Ireland. Notably, John O'Flaherty was a prominent 19th-century writer known for his contributions to Irish literature. The name is often found in Irish folklore and storytelling, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.