MCKELVEY
Also recorded as Mc Kelvey, Mckelvey
McKelvey
McKelvey is a Scottish and Northern Irish patronymic surname with ancient origins. The name is believed to have originated from the Old Gaelic name "Mac Amhalghaidh," meaning "son of the battle warrior." Over time, the name has evolved into various forms, including McKelvey, MacKelvey, MacKelvie, and MacAlvey.
The McKelvey surname has been predominantly found in Scotland and Northern Ireland, particularly in regions where Gaelic influence was strong. The McKelvey family history is closely tied to the Clan MacDougall in Argyll, Scotland, where they were known for their fierce loyalty and military prowess.
Throughout history, individuals bearing the McKelvey surname have made notable contributions to various fields, including academia, the arts, business, and politics. The name has also migrated to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where descendants of the McKelvey family have continued to thrive and uphold their heritage.
The McKelvey surname embodies a rich tapestry of Scottish and Irish history, reflecting the resilience, strength, and creativity of its bearers across generations.
There are approximately 783 people named McKelvey in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,930th most common surname in Britain. Around 12 in a million people in Britain are named McKelvey.
Surname type: From name of parent
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
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Richard
- Robert
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Joanne
- Karen
- Kathleen
- Laura
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Penelope
- Sarah
- Sonya
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.