How common is the O'Keefe surname?

There are approximately 15,000 people with the surname O'Keefe in the United States.

Are there O'Keefe soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 275 soldiers with the O'Keefe surname appear in Civil War records.

O'Keefe

Q: What does the surname O'Keefe mean?

The surname O'Keefe means "Descendant of Keefe, derived from the Irish personal name Caomh meaning 'gentle' or 'kind'.". It is of Irish origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Descendant of Keefe, derived from the Irish personal name Caomh meaning 'gentle' or 'kind'.

Etymology

The Irish prefix 'O'' (from 'Ó') means 'descendant of,' combined with Keefe from the Irish Caomh. The name has been prominent in Irish history since medieval times.

About the O'Keefe Surname

O'Keefe is an Irish patronymic surname with roots in medieval Munster nobility. The family held lands in County Cork and produced several notable historical figures.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 15,000 bearers in the United States #908 most common surname

Rare Common

Found primarily in Ireland, particularly in Munster, with significant diaspora in English-speaking countries.

O'Keefe Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the O'Keefe Surname

Jos. O'Keefe

Quick Facts

Origin: Irish
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: 12th century
Estimated Bearers: 15,000

War Records

275 soldiers with the O'Keefe surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →