Gaelic sept

Kirwan

Ó Ciardhubháin
Also: Kirwin, Quirevan

“descendant of Ciardhubhán, 'the black-dark one'”

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

Quick answers
Is Kirwan an Irish name?

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

What does the surname Kirwan mean?

Kirwan (Irish: Ó Ciardhubháin) means “descendant of Ciardhubhán, 'the black-dark one'”. Origin: Gaelic sept.

Where in Ireland is the surname Kirwan from?

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

What is the Irish for Kirwan?

Ó Ciardhubháin. Related spellings: Kirwin, Quirevan.

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

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