Cunningham

Topographic

Meaning

A person from Cunningham, a place in Ayrshire meaning 'milk pail' or 'rabbit warren.'

Etymology

Derived from the Gaelic 'cuinneag' (milk pail) or possibly from a place name in Ayrshire. The surname became established among Scottish nobility and was borne by families with significant landholdings.

About the Cunningham Surname

Cunningham is a Scottish surname originating from Ayrshire, where the family held substantial lands and political influence. The name became prominent through various notable bearers in Scottish history and beyond.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 110,000 bearers in the United States #378 most common surname
Rare Common

Primarily found in southwestern Scotland, particularly Ayrshire, with significant populations in North America and Australia.

Cunningham Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

People with the Cunningham Surname