CUNNIFF
Cunniff
Cunniff is a rare surname that has its origins in the British Isles. The name is of Gaelic origin, and it is believed to have been derived from the Gaelic personal name "Conn", which means "chief" or "king". The suffix "-iff" is indicative of the "son of" in Gaelic naming conventions. Therefore, Cunniff may have originally meant "son of Conn" or "descendant of Conn".
The surname Cunniff is most commonly found in Ireland, particularly in the Connacht region. It is believed to have been brought to Ireland by the ancient Gaelic tribes who settled there many centuries ago. Over time, the name spread to other parts of the British Isles, with variations in spelling such as Coniff and Coniffe also being recorded.
In modern times, individuals bearing the surname Cunniff can still be found predominantly in Ireland, the United Kingdom, and other English-speaking countries. The name has maintained its rarity, making it a distinctive and unique surname within British genealogy.
Notable individuals with the surname Cunniff are limited due to its scarcity, but those who bear the name can take pride in their Gaelic heritage and the rich historical connections of the name to ancient Celtic chieftains.
There are approximately 322 people named Cunniff in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Cunniff.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Ireland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Carl
- Christopher
- James
- John
- Martin
- Michael
- Patrick
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Sean
- Shaun
Female
- Angela
- Anne
- Cara
- Carol
- Caroline
- Claire
- Helen
- Joan
- Joanne
- Margaret
- Michelle
- Nancy
- Philippa
- Valerie