MAHAFFEY
Mahaffey
The surname Mahaffey is of Scottish and Northern Irish origin, believed to have been derived from the ancient Gaelic name "Mac Dhuibhshíthe," meaning "son of the dark fairy" or "son of the dark one." The name was anglicised to Mahaffey over time.
Historically, the Mahaffey family is associated with the Scottish region of Galloway and the northern counties of Ireland. The Mahaffeys were predominantly found in County Antrim in Northern Ireland, where they were a sept of the larger Scottish Clan MacEwen.
The Mahaffey name arrived in Britain as part of the widespread Scottish migration to Ireland in the 17th and 18th centuries. Many Mahaffey families settled in Ulster during this period, due to economic opportunities and land grants offered by the British crown. The surname spread further throughout the British Isles and beyond as descendants of the Mahaffey lineage migrated to other countries.
Notable individuals bearing the Mahaffey surname have made contributions in various fields, including politics, academics, the arts, and sports. The name has evolved over time with different variations, such as McAfee, McFie, and others, reflecting the diverse branches of the family tree.
Today, the Mahaffey surname continues to be borne by individuals across the United Kingdom and in countries where members of the diaspora settled. Genealogical research and DNA testing have facilitated the tracing of Mahaffey family lines, shedding light on the rich history and heritage of this Scottish and Northern Irish surname.
There are approximately 152 people named Mahaffey in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Mahaffey.
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
- Brian
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Joseph
- Mark
- Matthew
- Paul
- Peter
- Ryan
- Thomas
Female
- Alexandra
- Bertha
- Eileen
- Elizabeth
- Georgina
- Jane
- Janetta
- Jessica
- Katherine
- Liza
- Lorraine
- Mary
- Wendy