SHEEHY
Sheehy
Sheehy is a surname of Irish origin, primarily found in the south-west region of Ireland. The name is derived from the Irish Gaelic "Ó Síthigh," meaning "descendant of Sítheach," which itself is a personal name derived from the word "síth," meaning 'peace' or 'fairy mound.' The Sheehy surname is typically associated with County Kerry and County Limerick in Ireland.
Origins and History
The Sheehy surname can trace its roots back to ancient Gaelic tribes in Ireland. Over time, the surname has evolved and spread, with many Sheehy families emigrating to other countries, including the United Kingdom. The surname is linked to important historical events and figures in Irish history.
Notable individuals
- William Sheehy (1768–1838) - Irish bishop who played a significant role in education and humanitarian work.
- Micheál Sheehy (1899–1963) - Irish politician and activist involved in the struggle for Irish independence.
Distribution
While the Sheehy surname originated in Ireland, it has spread to other parts of the world due to migration and emigration. Today, individuals with the surname Sheehy can be found in various countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, and Canada.
Variants
Variants of the Sheehy surname may include Sheehey, Sheehi, and Shee.
Legacy
The Sheehy surname carries with it a rich history and cultural significance, reflecting the heritage of the Irish people. Families with the surname continue to celebrate their ancestry and contribute to various fields, maintaining the legacy of the Sheehy name.
There are approximately 1,387 people named Sheehy in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,710th most common surname in Britain. Around 21 in a million people in Britain are named Sheehy.
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
- Christopher
- James
- John
- Mark
- Martin
- Michael
- Patrick
- Paul
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Angela
- Ann
- Carol
- Christine
- Emma
- Helen
- Jane
- Kathleen
- Lisa
- Lucy
- Margaret
- Marilyn
- Mary
- Patricia
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.