Ó Frighil is an Irish surname, the Gaelic form of Friel. The name originates from the Irish Gaelic Ó Frighil, meaning "descendant of Fearghal," which itself derives from the Old Irish name Fergal, composed of elements meaning "man" (fer) and "valour" (gal), thus signifying "man of valour." Historical Background The Ó Frighil family is historically associated with Tyrconnell, now predominantly County Donegal in modern Ireland. As a sept, they were not among the most powerful or numerous, but they held a significant hereditary role as coarbs (stewards) of Kilmacrennan, County Donegal. Prior to the Christianization of Ireland, the family is believed to have served as a hereditary line of druidic priests. Notably, the Chief of the Name possessed the privilege of inaugurating the O'Donnell as lord of Tirconnell, a ceremonial right highlighting their prestige. The origin of the Ó Frighil lineage traces back to Firghil, a descendant of Eoghan, son of Niall Noígíallach (also known as Niall of the Nine Hostages), a legendary high-king of Ireland. Eoghan was also a brother of St. Columcille (Columba), one of Ireland's patron saints, placing the family in close kinship to this revered figure. The name Fearghal, or its earlier form Fergal, was borne by an 8th-century king of Ireland, further anchoring the name in early medieval Irish history. Notable Bearers Records of the Diocese of Raphoe mention several distinguished ecclesiastics from this sept, though they are not widely documented in national histories due to the family's modest prominence. The name is closely related to the surnames Farrell and Ó Fearghail, which share a common etymology with Friel and Fearghal.