Keene

Keene is a surname of English origin that is derived from the Old English word 'cyne', meaning royal or kingly. The surname is primarily found in the United Kingdom, with significant populations in England, particularly in the counties of Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, and Essex.

Historically, the Keene surname has been associated with individuals of royal or noble descent, suggesting a link to the aristocracy or ruling class. Over time, the surname has been adopted by a wider range of families, leading to its presence in various regions across the UK.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Keene include (but are not limited to) Admiral Sir Benjamin Keene, a prominent British naval officer, and Sir Frederick Keene, a distinguished British Army general.

The Keene surname continues to be passed down through generations, reflecting a rich tapestry of British history and heritage. Today, individuals with the surname Keene can be found in various professions and walks of life, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape of the United Kingdom.

There are approximately 2,391 people named Keene in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,634th most common surname in Britain. Around 37 in a million people in Britain are named Keene.

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
  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • Daniel
  • David
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert

Female

  • Barbara
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Georgina
  • Janet
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Maureen
  • Michelle
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Teresa
  • Victoria

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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