Kevin

The British surname Kevin is derived from the Irish Gaelic name "CaoimhĂ­n," meaning "handsome" or "gentle." The name Kevin has been used as a given name in Ireland for centuries and was later adopted as a surname.

Origin and Meaning

The surname Kevin is believed to have originated in Ireland, where it was traditionally used as a male first name. Over time, it became a hereditary surname passed down through generations. The name is associated with traits such as kindness, gentleness, and handsomeness.

Distribution

The surname Kevin is not as common in Britain as it is in Ireland, but there are families with the surname Kevin scattered throughout the United Kingdom. The name may have been introduced to Britain through migration, marriage, or other historical connections between Ireland and Britain.

Famous Individuals

Several notable individuals with the surname Kevin have made their mark in various fields, including entertainment, sports, politics, and literature. Some of these individuals have helped popularise the surname Kevin and contributed to its recognition in the wider British community.

Legacy

Despite not being as widespread as some other British surnames, Kevin carries a sense of Irish heritage and cultural significance. The name has a distinctive sound and meaning that resonates with many individuals who bear it as a surname. Over time, the legacy of the Kevin surname may continue to evolve and intertwine with the broader tapestry of British family names.

There are approximately 390 people named Kevin in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Kevin.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andries
  • Christopher
  • Daniel
  • Dave
  • David
  • Harper
  • James
  • John
  • Joseph
  • Miles
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Thomas

Female

  • Fidelma
  • Frances
  • Helen
  • Jennifer
  • Jill
  • Karen
  • Kay
  • Linda
  • Lisa
  • Mary

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.