Kearny

Patronymic

Meaning

Derived from the Irish 'Ó Cearnáigh' meaning descendant of Cearnáigh, a personal name possibly meaning 'victorious' or 'warrior-like'.

Etymology

The surname originates from the Irish patronymic 'Ó Cearnáigh,' which was anglicized to Kearny. The personal name Cearnáigh may derive from Old Irish elements related to martial or victorious qualities.

About the Kearny Surname

Kearny is an Irish surname derived from the patronymic Ó Cearnáigh. The name has significant representation in Irish and Irish-American populations.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 22,000 bearers in the United States #833 most common surname
Rare Common

Found primarily in Ireland and among Irish immigrant communities, particularly in the United States.

Kearny Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the Kearny Surname