Gaelic sept

Kearney

Ó Cearnaigh / Ó Catharnaigh
Also: Carney

“descendant of Cearnach, 'victorious'”

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

Quick answers
Is Kearney an Irish name?

Kearney is a Gaelic name: it was formed in Irish, from an Irish ancestor, before English was spoken here. In Irish the name is Ó Cearnaigh / Ó Catharnaigh.

What does the surname Kearney mean?

Kearney (Irish: Ó Cearnaigh / Ó Catharnaigh) means “descendant of Cearnach, 'victorious'”. Origin: Gaelic sept.

Where in Ireland is the surname Kearney from?

The historic homeland of the Kearney name is Mayo, Tipperary, Meath. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.

What is the Irish for Kearney?

Ó Cearnaigh / Ó Catharnaigh. Related spellings: Carney.

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

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