Lochlann

This name derives from the Irish (Gaelic) “Lochlann” (Norrænt, Norðurlöndin), meaning “one who dwells at the fjord-land.” It was the Irish term for invaders from Scandinavia. Lochlann is a geographical region in Classical Gaelic literature and the history of Early Medieval Ireland. The modern Gaelic and Welsh (Llychlyn) languages signify Scandinavia, and more specifically, Norway. In Irish Gaelic, the adjectival noun “Lochlannach” (person belonging to Lochlann) has the additional sense of “raider,” specifically, Vikings. It was the Gaeilge name for Scandinavia but was adopted as a personal name. It may have been initially Mac Lochlainne, meaning “son of Scandinavia.” Muircheartach Mac Lochlainn was king of the Cenél nEógain, Tyrone, and High King of Ireland from around 1156 until he died in 1166. He succeeded Toirdhealbhach Ua Conchobhair, who died in 1156.