Downey
“descendant of Duibheanach — or, for the second sept, 'devotee of the church'”
The sept's historic heartland, highlighted. People moved — a name can be found far from home.
Is Downey an Irish name?
Downey is a Gaelic name: it was formed in Irish, from an Irish ancestor, before English was spoken here. In Irish the name is Ó Duibheanaigh / Ó Maoldomhnaigh.
What does the surname Downey mean?
Downey (Irish: Ó Duibheanaigh / Ó Maoldomhnaigh) means “descendant of Duibheanach — or, for the second sept, 'devotee of the church'”. Origin: Gaelic septs (several).
Where in Ireland is the surname Downey from?
The historic homeland of the Downey name is Galway, Cork, Kerry. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.
What is the Irish for Downey?
Ó Duibheanaigh / Ó Maoldomhnaigh. Related spellings: O'Downey, Muldowney.
Looking for the Downey family crest? Read this first — arms belong to people, not surnames, and the honest version is more interesting. Tracing Downey ancestors? The step-by-step guide.
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