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Kaneavy Family History

Kaneavy Surname Meaning

The surname Kaneavy is believed to have Irish origins, specifically derived from the Gaelic name "O'Ceanndha," which means "descendant of Ceanndha." The personal name Ceanndha itself is thought to derive from the word "ceann," meaning "head" or "chief," thus suggesting a familial lineage that may have originally indicated leadership or prominence within a community. This surname would have been used to denote families who were descended from a notable ancestor, a common practice in Irish naming conventions.

The historical development of the name Kaneavy can be traced back to various regions in Ireland, particularly in the provinces of Connacht and Ulster. As with many Irish surnames, variations and anglicizations occurred over time, particularly during the English occupation of Ireland when many Gaelic names were altered to fit English phonetics and spelling conventions. As a result, Kaneavy may appear in records with alternative spellings such as O'Keeney or even Keeney.

In terms of regional distribution, the name Kaneavy is relatively uncommon and may be more frequently encountered in Irish expatriate communities, particularly in the United States, where many Irish families migrated during the 19th and early 20th centuries. This migration often led to the adoption of various spellings and forms, as individuals sought to assimilate into their new environments while still retaining some connection to their heritage.

Related surnames include Keaney and Kineavy, which share similar roots and meanings. These names reflect the complex interplay of cultural and linguistic influences that have shaped Irish surnames over the centuries. The variations often highlight regional dialects and the historical context in which these names were used, providing insight into the social structures of past Irish society.

Similar surnames: Haney, January, Kanagy, Baney, Dunleavy, Kanady, Janeway, Mcneary, Manary, Maney

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Use census records and voter lists to see where families with the Kaneavy surname lived. Within census records, you can often find information like name of household members, ages, birthplaces, residences, and occupations.

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Census Record

There are 3K census records available for the last name Kaneavy. Like a window into their day-to-day life, Kaneavy census records can tell you where and how your ancestors worked, their level of education, veteran status, and more.

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Passenger List

There are 642 immigration records available for the last name Kaneavy. Passenger lists are your ticket to knowing when your ancestors arrived in the USA, and how they made the journey - from the ship name to ports of arrival and departure.

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Military Records

There are 1K military records available for the last name Kaneavy. For the veterans among your Kaneavy ancestors, military collections provide insights into where and when they served, and even physical descriptions.

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Kaneavy Surname Meaning

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