Dempsey

Dempsey is a surname of Irish origin that has been integrated into British culture, particularly in Northern Ireland and areas with significant Irish heritage. The surname is derived from the Gaelic name Ó Díomasaigh, meaning "descendant of Diomasach," and is commonly pronounced as "DEM-see" or "DEM-see."

The Dempsey name is believed to have originated in County Westmeath, Ireland, where the Dempsey clan was prominent in the medieval period. As a result of historical Irish migration to Britain, the surname has become established among British families, particularly in regions with strong Irish connections.

Throughout history, individuals bearing the surname Dempsey have made significant contributions to various fields, including sports, entertainment, politics, and academia. Notable bearers of the Dempsey name include Jack Dempsey, an acclaimed British boxer, and Dermot Dempsey, a renowned Irish folk musician.

The Dempsey surname reflects the enduring influence of Irish heritage in British society and exemplifies the rich diversity of British surnames. It continues to be passed down through generations, symbolising a connection to ancestral roots and a shared sense of identity among British families with Irish lineage.

There are approximately 8,561 people named Dempsey in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,107th most common surname in Britain. Around 131 in a million people in Britain are named Dempsey.

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

  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Stephen
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Anne
  • Christine
  • Deborah
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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