Whelan is a traditional Irish surname that is derived from the Old English personal name "Willhelm," meaning "helmet" and "protection." The name is commonly found in County Galway and County Waterford in Ireland. People with the surname Whelan are often described as loyal, dependable, and hardworking individuals who take pride in their heritage. Whelan may also be a variant of the Welsh name "O'Faolain," meaning "descendant of Faolain," a personal name derived from "faol," meaning "wolf." Overall, the name Whelan carries a sense of strength, resilience, and family pride.