Keefe Surname

Introduction

The surname Keefe is a popular surname with a rich history and widespread distribution around the world. In this article, we will explore the origins of the Keefe surname, its meaning, variations, and distribution in different countries. With data showing the incidence of the Keefe surname in various countries, we will take a closer look at the significance of the name and its prevalence in different regions.

Origins and Meaning of the Keefe Surname

The Keefe surname is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "O'Caoimh," meaning "descendant of Caomh," which translates to "gentle" or "kind." The Keefe surname is of patronymic origin, indicating descent from a male ancestor or patriarch named Caomh.

Like many surnames of Gaelic origin, the Keefe surname underwent anglicization during the period of English influence in Ireland. Variations of the Keefe surname include O'Keefe, O'Keeffe, Keiffe, and Kief. Despite the variations in spelling, the core meaning and origin of the surname remain the same.

Distribution of the Keefe Surname

United States

The Keefe surname is most prevalent in the United States, with an incidence of 15,684 individuals bearing the name. The large Irish immigrant population in the United States contributed to the popularity of the Keefe surname, with many families retaining their Irish heritage through their surname.

United Kingdom

England

In England, the Keefe surname has an incidence of 1,928 individuals. While the surname is not as common as in the United States, there is still a notable presence of Keefe families in England, particularly in areas with historical ties to Ireland.

Wales

Wales has a smaller incidence of the Keefe surname, with 123 individuals bearing the name. The Welsh variation of the surname may have distinct characteristics that set it apart from other variations.

Ireland

In Ireland, the birthplace of the Keefe surname, there are 29 individuals with the surname. While not as prevalent as in other countries, the Keefe surname holds significance in Ireland due to its Gaelic roots and historical importance.

Canada

Canada has a significant population of individuals with the Keefe surname, with an incidence of 1,447. The Irish diaspora in Canada contributed to the spread of the Keefe surname, with many families maintaining their Irish identity through their surname.

Australia and New Zealand

Australia and New Zealand have smaller incidences of the Keefe surname, with 734 and 151 individuals, respectively. The presence of the Keefe surname in these countries reflects the global dispersion of Irish immigrants and their descendants.

Other Countries

Other countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, and South Africa also have varying incidences of the Keefe surname, indicating the worldwide reach of this Irish surname. The diversity of countries with individuals bearing the Keefe surname underscores the global impact of Irish migration and the preservation of Irish heritage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Keefe surname is a significant and widespread surname with Gaelic origins and a rich history. The variations of the Keefe surname and its distribution in different countries reflect the global influence of Irish migration and the enduring legacy of Irish heritage. The data on the incidence of the Keefe surname in various countries highlights the prevalence of this surname and the continued recognition of its Irish roots.

The surname Keefe within the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is achievable to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The exact same occurs in the case of Keefe, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said that it's a surname which can be found in all of the countries of the globe. In the same manner you can find nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of people because of the surname Keefe is greater than in other countries.

The map associated with Keefe surname

View Keefe surname map

The chance of examining on a globe map about which nations hold a greater number of Keefe in the world, helps us plenty. By putting ourselves regarding the map, for a tangible country, we could begin to see the tangible number of individuals with all the surname Keefe, to obtain in this way the particular information of all Keefe that one may presently find in that country. All this also assists us to comprehend not only in which the surname Keefe comes from, but also in what way the individuals that are initially the main household that bears the surname Keefe have moved and moved. Just as, you can see by which places they will have settled and grown up, which is why if Keefe is our surname, it appears interesting to which other nations regarding the globe it's possible that certain of our ancestors once moved to.

Nations with additional Keefe on the planet

Keefe Surname

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