MacSwiney

Patronymic

Meaning

Son of Swiney, from a personal name possibly derived from 'suain' (sleep) or related Gaelic elements.

Etymology

Mac- denotes 'son of' in Irish Gaelic. Swiney may derive from Gaelic personal names, though the precise etymology remains uncertain and may relate to various Gaelic roots.

About the MacSwiney Surname

An Irish patronymic surname with historical significance in Munster, particularly Cork. The MacSwiney family held notable positions in Irish history and the independence movement.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 4,000 bearers in the United States #1,979 most common surname
Rare Common

Primarily found in Ireland, particularly in Cork and Munster regions, with some historical significance in Irish nobility.

Notable Bearers

Terence MacSwiney (Irish independence activist and Lord Mayor of Cork)

People with the MacSwiney Surname

Muriel MacSwiney