About the name
- Origin
- Irish
- English version
- Neil, Neal, Niall
- Variants
- Néall
- Stronghold region
- Ulster
Overview
Borne by Niall Noígíallach (Niall of the Nine Hostages), 4th–5th-century High King and ancestor of the Uí Néill dynasties; recent genetic studies suggest one in twelve men in northwestern Ireland descend from him in the male line.
The story behind Niall
Niall of the Nine Hostages was the late 4th-century High King from whom the great Uí Néill dynasties of north and central Ireland descend.
Mythology & legend
Non-mythological; legendary High King and progenitor of the Uí Néill.
Did you know?
Recent DNA studies suggest one in twelve Irish men may share his Y-chromosome.
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