Keery

Overview Keery is a surname of Irish origin, commonly found in Northern Ireland and parts of the Republic of Ireland. The name is derived from the Gaelic name Ó Ciardha, meaning "descendant of Ciardha." Ciardha was a personal name meaning "dark one" or "dark-haired."

Origins The Keery surname can be traced back to ancient Celtic tribes in Ireland. The Ó Ciardha clan was historically associated with County Galway in the west of Ireland. Over time, branches of the family migrated to Ulster, particularly the counties of Antrim and Armagh, where the name Keery became more prevalent.

Variants The name Keery has several variants, including Kier, O'Kerry, O'Keary, and MacKerry. These variations may be the result of anglicisation and regional dialects over the centuries.

Notable Individuals

  • John Keery (1887-1952): A prominent politician from Northern Ireland who served as a Member of Parliament in the early 20th century.
  • Eileen Keery (b. 1965): An acclaimed Irish author known for her works of historical fiction set in the Emerald Isle.
  • Patrick O'Kerry (c. 1360-1425): A medieval Irish poet and scholar renowned for his contributions to Gaelic literature.

Modern Distribution Today, individuals with the surname Keery can be found across the United Kingdom, Ireland, and in various other English-speaking countries. The name has also spread to the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand due to emigration patterns.

Coat of Arms The Keery family is associated with a traditional coat of arms that may feature symbols such as lions, swords, or heraldic shields. These symbols often reflect the family's values or historical achievements.

In summary, the surname Keery is a testament to the rich tapestry of Irish history and the enduring legacy of the Gaelic clans. Its bearers have contributed to various fields and continue to uphold their heritage across the globe.

There are approximately 156 people named Keery in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Keery.

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

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Nigel
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Samuel
  • Stephen
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Alexandra
  • Deborah
  • Eileen
  • Jacqueline
  • Jennifer
  • Julia
  • Lynne
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Rebecca
  • Rosemary
  • 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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