How common is the McCarthy surname?

There are approximately 135,000 people with the surname McCarthy in the United States.

Are there McCarthy soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 1,573 soldiers with the McCarthy surname appear in Civil War records.

McCarthy

Q: What does the surname McCarthy mean?

The surname McCarthy means "Descendant of Carthach, meaning loving or affectionate.". It is of Irish origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Descendant of Carthach, meaning loving or affectionate.

Etymology

Derived from the Irish Mac Carthaigh, from the personal name Carthach. The surname is associated with County Cork and County Kerry.

About the McCarthy Surname

McCarthy is a prominent Munster surname with medieval roots in County Cork and County Kerry. The name is associated with a powerful family that held significant lands and influence in southwest Ireland.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 135,000 bearers in the United States #328 most common surname

Rare Common

Concentrated in Munster, particularly in County Cork and County Kerry.

McCarthy Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

Avery McCarthy

Charles McCarthy

Dennis McCarthy

Hon.

E.C. McCARTHY

Ivie McCarthy

J. McCarthy

Doctor

J.J. McCARTHY

HONORABLE

Joe McCarthy

MARY McCARTHY

Maud McCarthy

Dame

Maude McCarthy