FEENY
Feeny
Feeny is a surname of Gaelic origin, derived from the Irish name "Ó Fiannaigh", which translates to "descendant of Fiannaigh". The name is believed to have originated from County Mayo in Ireland and spread to other parts of Britain, particularly Scotland and England.
History
The Feeny family has a rich history dating back centuries, with members of the clan being involved in various professions and pursuits, including agriculture, trade, and military service. The surname Feeny is associated with loyalty, determination, and a strong sense of community.
Distribution
The Feeny surname is relatively rare in Britain, with most individuals bearing the name residing in Ireland, particularly in the western counties. Over time, some members of the Feeny family migrated to other parts of the United Kingdom, contributing to the spread and diversity of the surname.
Notable Individuals
- John Feeny (1823-1895): A renowned poet and playwright from County Mayo, known for his works celebrating Irish culture and heritage.
- Mary Feeny (b. 1956): A distinguished historian and academic, specialising in the social history of Britain during the Industrial Revolution.
Variants
The Feeny surname may also be found with various spelling variations, including Feeney, Feney, and Feenie. These variants reflect the different ways in which the name has been recorded throughout history.
In modern times, the Feeny surname continues to be cherished by those who bear it, serving as a reminder of the family's heritage and enduring legacy.
There are approximately 123 people named Feeny in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Feeny.
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
- Allen
- Andrew
- David
- Gerald
- Hugh
- Jack
- James
- Kevin
- Mark
- Michael
- Nicholas
- Patrick
- Peter
Female
- Amanda
- Anne
- Catherine
- Clare
- Elaine
- Elinor
- Emma
- Juliet
- Katherine
- Margaret
- Penelope
- Rowena
- Sara
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.