Gaelic learned family

Canavan

Ó Ceanndubháin
Also: O'Canavan, Kinavan, Kinevan

“descendant of Ceanndubhán, 'the dark-headed one'”

The sept's historic heartland, highlighted. People moved — a name can be found far from home.

Quick answers
Is Canavan an Irish name?

Canavan is a Gaelic name: it was formed in Irish, from an Irish ancestor, before English was spoken here. In Irish the name is Ó Ceanndubháin.

What does the surname Canavan mean?

Canavan (Irish: Ó Ceanndubháin) means “descendant of Ceanndubhán, 'the dark-headed one'”. Origin: Gaelic learned family.

Where in Ireland is the surname Canavan from?

The historic homeland of the Canavan name is Galway, Cork. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.

What is the Irish for Canavan?

Ó Ceanndubháin. Related spellings: O'Canavan, Kinavan, Kinevan.

Looking for the Canavan family crest? Read this first — arms belong to people, not surnames, and the honest version is more interesting. Tracing Canavan ancestors? The step-by-step guide.

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