Keens

Keens is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English word cene, which means "daring" or "brave". The surname is primarily found in the southern counties of England, particularly in Kent and Sussex.

Origins

The surname Keens is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who displayed boldness or courage. It may have been bestowed upon a particularly brave individual or someone who took risks.

Variants

Variants of the Keens surname include Keene, Kean, and Keane.

Notable Individuals

  • John Keens (1805-1878): A prominent Victorian industrialist known for his contributions to the iron industry in the Midlands.
  • Elizabeth Keens (b. 1982): A modern playwright and screenwriter from London, known for her innovative storytelling and character development.
  • Martin Keens (1939-2015): An esteemed British architect whose work on several landmark buildings has left a lasting impact on the urban landscape.

Distribution

The Keens surname is most commonly found in the counties of Kent, Sussex, and Surrey. However, individuals bearing this surname have also migrated to various parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Coat of Arms

The Keens family coat of arms features a shield with symbols representing bravery, strength, and determination. The crest typically includes elements such as a lion, sword, or helmet.

In conclusion, the surname Keens has a rich history rooted in English heritage, with notable individuals making significant contributions to various fields over the centuries.

There are approximately 581 people named Keens in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around nine in a million people in Britain are named Keens.

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

  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Gary
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Simon

Female

  • Charlotte
  • Emma
  • Hannah
  • Joan
  • Linda
  • Louise
  • Mary
  • Rebecca
  • Ruth
  • Samantha
  • Susan
  • Wendy
  • Zoe

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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