TUNNEY

Tunney

Tunney is an Anglicised surname of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Ó Tonnaithe, meaning 'descendant of Tonnach'. The name is primarily found in Ireland and is associated with County Donegal in the northern province of Ulster.

Origins and Distribution

The Tunney surname can be traced back to ancient Gaelic roots in Ireland. The Ó Tonnaithe family were part of the larger Cenél Conaill dynasty in Donegal, with the name first recorded in historical documents dating back to the 14th century. Over time, the name has spread to different parts of Ireland and beyond, including the United Kingdom.

Influence and Legacy

The Tunney surname has a strong presence in Irish history and culture, with individuals bearing the name making significant contributions in various fields. From politics to the arts, Tunneys have left their mark on society, preserving their Gaelic heritage and identity.

Notable Individuals

• Gene Tunney (1897-1978): An American boxer of Irish descent, born James Joseph Tunney, he was the World Heavyweight Champion from 1926 to 1928.
• John Tunney (1934-2018): A prominent American politician and lawyer who served as a United States Senator from California from 1971 to 1977.

References

• MacLysaght, Edward. The Surnames of Ireland. Irish Academic Press, 1985.
• "Tunney Family History." Ancestry.com.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

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

• Alan
• Andrew
• David
• Francis
• James
• John
• Joseph
• Michael
• Patrick
• Paul
• Peter
• Richard

Female

• Anne
• Catherine
• Deborah
• Edel
• Elizabeth
• Emma
• Helen
• Jacqueline
• Margaret
• Mary
• Patricia
• Sarah

Similar and related surnames

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