Carey

Origin of the Name: Carey is a surname of Old French origin, derived from the Old French word "carri," which means a carriage or cart. The name was likely occupational in nature, indicating a person who was involved in the transportation of goods or people.

Historical Significance: The Carey surname has a rich history in England, with records of individuals bearing the name dating back to medieval times. The Carey family was prominent in British aristocracy, with the most notable figure being Robert Carey, 1st Earl of Monmouth, a statesman and cousin of Queen Elizabeth I.

Distribution and Popularity: The surname Carey is widespread across the United Kingdom and Ireland, with concentrations in regions such as Cornwall, Devon, and Ireland. It also has a presence in former British colonies, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Variants and Derivatives: Variants of the Carey surname include Cary, Carrie, and Carrey. These variations have evolved over time due to factors such as regional dialects and phonetic changes.

Famous Bearers of the Name:

  • Henry Carey (1526–1596): An English poet and courtier who was a patron of the arts during the Elizabethan era.
  • Mariah Carey: A renowned American singer, songwriter, and actress of Afro-Venezuelan and Irish descent.
  • Jim Carey: A celebrated Canadian-American actor known for his comedic performances in films such as "Ace Ventura" and "The Mask."

Modern Usage: Today, the Carey surname continues to be prevalent in British society, with individuals from diverse backgrounds proudly bearing the name. The name has also gained international recognition through the achievements of prominent figures in various fields.

Coat of Arms: The Carey family coat of arms features elements such as lions, crosses, and heraldic symbols that reflect the family's status and heritage. These coats of arms are passed down through generations as a symbol of family lineage and pride.

There are approximately 15,750 people named Carey in the UK. That makes it the 560th most common surname in Britain. Around 242 in a million people in Britain are named Carey.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Stephen

Female

  • Caroline
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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