How common is the Keen surname?

There are approximately 35,000 people with the surname Keen in the United States.

Are there Keen soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 836 soldiers with the Keen surname appear in Civil War records.

Keen

Q: What does the surname Keen mean?

The surname Keen means "Derived from the Old English word 'cene' meaning bold, brave, or keen-sighted.". It is of English, Irish origin.

Descriptive

Meaning

Derived from the Old English word 'cene' meaning bold, brave, or keen-sighted.

Etymology

The surname comes from the Old English adjective cene, which could describe a bold or sharp-eyed person. It may also derive from Irish sources as a shortened form of longer patronymic surnames.

About the Keen Surname

An English descriptive surname referring to personal qualities of boldness or sharpness. The name has maintained consistent usage since medieval times.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 35,000 bearers in the United States #652 most common surname

Rare Common

Found throughout England and present in significant numbers in the United States and other English-speaking countries.

Keen Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Keen Surname

Charles Keen

1825–1900 Physician Pennsylvania

Quick Facts

Origin: English, Irish
Classification: Descriptive
Earliest Record: 13th century
Estimated Bearers: 35,000

War Records

836 soldiers with the Keen surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →