KENNEDY
Kennedy
Kennedy is a surname of Scottish and Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic O'Cinneide, meaning "helmet-headed." The name is thought to have originated from a region in southwest Scotland known as Galloway, where the Kennedy clan held territories. The Kennedy family is considered one of the oldest Irish clans and has a rich history dating back to medieval times.
History and Origins
The Kennedy clan has a long and illustrious history, with the first recorded instance of the name dating back to the 11th century. The Kennedys were known for their fierce loyalty and military prowess, and many members of the clan held prominent positions in Scottish and Irish society. The clan's ancestral seat was located in Ayrshire, Scotland, where they held significant landholdings.
Notable Individuals
The Kennedy surname has been borne by numerous notable individuals throughout history. One of the most famous Kennedys is John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, who served from 1961 until his assassination in 1963. The Kennedy name is also associated with the Kennedy political dynasty, which has produced several prominent figures in American politics.
Legacy
The Kennedy surname has left a lasting legacy in both Scottish and Irish history. The clan's motto, "Avise la Fin" meaning "Consider the End," reflects their strategic and forward-thinking nature. Today, the Kennedy surname is considered a prestigious and noble lineage, with many individuals proudly bearing the name as a symbol of their heritage.
In conclusion, the Kennedy surname is an ancient and distinguished one, with a rich history that spans centuries. From its origins in Scotland and Ireland to its prominent presence in American politics, the Kennedy name continues to be associated with honor, loyalty, and a strong sense of identity.
There are approximately 51,301 people named Kennedy in the UK. That makes it the 133rd most common surname in Britain. Around 788 in a million people in Britain are named Kennedy.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Scotland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Stephen
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Anne
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- Cannedy
- Canady
- Canedy
- Cannady
- Kenady
- Kannady
- Kanady
- Kannedy
- Kenndey
- Kenned
- Kenaday
- Kendy
- Keneady
- Keneday
- Keneddy
- Kenedey
- Kenedy
- Kenendy
- Kennaday
- Kennadey
- Kennady
- Kenndy
- Kenneaday
- Kenneady
- Kenneday
- Kenneddy
- Kennedey
- Kennerdy
- Kenneyed
- Kennidy
- Kennnedy
- Kennody
- Kennydy
- Kinnedy
- Kainady
- Kanadys
- Kenday
- Kenerdy
- Kenety
- Kenidy
- Kennerday
- Kennet
- Kennetty
- Kenniday
- Kinady
- Cundy
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.