Carey
“descendant of Ciardha, 'the dark one' — among several distinct roots”
The sept's historic heartland, highlighted. People moved — a name can be found far from home.
Is Carey an Irish name?
Carey is a Gaelic name: it was formed in Irish, from an Irish ancestor, before English was spoken here. In Irish the name is Ó Ciardha / Ó Cearaigh.
What does the surname Carey mean?
Carey (Irish: Ó Ciardha / Ó Cearaigh) means “descendant of Ciardha, 'the dark one' — among several distinct roots”. Origin: Gaelic septs (several).
Where in Ireland is the surname Carey from?
The historic homeland of the Carey name is Kildare, Mayo, Cork. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.
What is the Irish for Carey?
Ó Ciardha / Ó Cearaigh. Related spellings: Cary, O'Carey, Keary.
Looking for the Carey family crest? Read this first — arms belong to people, not surnames, and the honest version is more interesting. Tracing Carey ancestors? The step-by-step guide.
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