How Do You Spell SULLIVAN?

Pronunciation: [sˈʌlɪvən] (IPA)

The correct spelling of the word "Sullivan" is S-uh-l-uh-v-uh-n. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /sʌlɪvən/. The first syllable, "Sul," is pronounced with a short "u" sound, followed by a soft "l." The second syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound and the final syllable, "van," is pronounced with a short "u" sound followed by a soft "n." It's important to spell words correctly to avoid confusion and to ensure clear communication.

SULLIVAN Meaning and Definition

1. Sullivan is a proper noun that can refer to a few different meanings and contexts.

   One common usage of Sullivan is as a surname of Irish origin. As a surname, it is derived from the Gaelic Ó Súilleabháin, which means "descendant of Súilleabhán." This name is composed of the elements "súil," meaning "eye," and "béan," meaning "small." It is believed that the name was originally a nickname for someone with small eyes or was used as a hereditary personal name. Sullivan is a relatively common surname in Ireland and has spread among the Irish diaspora around the world.

   Sullivan can also refer to a geographic location, particularly in the United States. Various places have been named Sullivan, such as Sullivan County in several states, including New York, New Hampshire, Indiana, and Pennsylvania. These locations were typically named after prominent individuals, landmarks, or historical events associated with the name Sullivan.

   Additionally, Sullivan can be used to refer to a given name, commonly used as a first or middle name for both males and females. As a given name, its etymology and meaning are less clear-cut. However, it is believed to have a similar origin to the surname, reflecting traits such as "small-eyed" or "a person with sharp sight."

   Overall, whether as a surname, geographic location, or given name, Sullivan is a versatile term with Irish roots and various interpretations depending on the specific context.

Top Common Misspellings for SULLIVAN *

• sillivin 18.1818181%
• sulivans 18.1818181%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for SULLIVAN

• sulllivan
• suliva
• suillivan
• suliven
• sullian
• sallian
• sullivann
• sullavan
• sulliven
• Sullevan
• Sullimah
• Sulpitian
• sutlleman
• Sublitan
• sullivand
• sallivan
• sullievan

Etymology of SULLIVAN

The word "Sullivan" is of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname Ó Súilleabháin, which means "descendant of Súilleabhán". The name Súilleabhán itself is derived from the Gaelic word "súil", meaning "eye", and the diminutive suffix "-án", translating to "little". As with many Irish surnames, the prefix "Ó" denotes "grandson" or "descendant of". Over time, Ó Súilleabháin has been anglicized to Sullivan.

Similar spelling words for SULLIVAN

• sulivan,
• sullivant.