Surname Devane - Meaning and Origin

Devane: What does the surname Devane mean?

The last name Devane is of Irish origin and has several variations, such as Deevy, Davin, Devaine, and Davine. It may be derived from the Irish surname Ó Dubháin, which in turn is derived from the Gaelic words for "black" (dubh) and "bird" (án). Another possible origin is from the personal name "Duibhín" or "dark-haired one".

The Irish Devanes were often followers of the Earl of Desmond who were dispersed after the Elizabethan wars in the late 16th century. The name then became more common in southern Ireland and County Cork.

In America, the Devane surname is particularly concentrated in Irish American regions of the northeast. Today, Devane is a relatively rare name in the United States, with an estimated 3,900 people bearing the name in 2020.

The Devane surname represents a unique and rich Irish heritage that celebrates its roots while looking towards future generations. In modern times, the Devane surname provides a connection to the proud culture and past of the Irish people, and provides an opportunity for bearers of the name to connect with their cultural legacy.

Devane: Where does the name Devane come from?

The surname Devane is of Irish origin and can be found across the United States and Europe. In the United States, the surname is most common in the states of Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and New York. It is also common in the states of California, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Florida. In Europe, the Devane surname is mainly found in Ireland and England.

The Devane name can be traced back to the 17th century. It is derived from the Gaelic term "Deamhan", meaning "the wild, the fierce or the holy". In Ireland, the Devane name has been linked to County Limerick, and surrounding areas. In Limerick, a variant spelling of Devane is Devaney.

The Devane surname can also be found in other countries, such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Many Irish immigrants brought the Devane surname with them when they emigrated to the New World in the 18th century.

The Devane surname is a unique and distinctive one. Its origin makes it a fascinating family name to trace. It is a reminder of the deep Irish-American history and culture. Those who share it can take great pride in their heritage, and the connection to their past.

Variations of the surname Devane

The surname Devane is of Celtic origin. Variants, spellings and surnames that share the same origin include: Deevan, Deevane, Devain, Devaine, Deveen, Deveene, Divane, Divain, Divaine, Divan, Divane, Devan, Devane, Devyan, Devyane, Dewan, Dewane, Duane, Duayne and O'Devan.

The Devane surname is associated with many different regions. In Ireland, it is found in the counties of Kilkenny, Cork, Waterford and Clare. In Scotland, it is mostly found in Perthshire, with some occurrences in Ayrshire and Renfrewshire. In Wales, it is found in Breconshire, Caernarvonshire, Denbighshire, Merionethshire and Radnorshire.

The surname Devane has also evolved over time. In some cases, it has been further Anglicised to Duane, Deane and Dwayne, while Divan and Divane may have arisen as a phonetic approximation of Devane. Similarly, surnames such as Deevan and Deevane have been derived from a pronunciation of Devane.

O'Devan is an Irish variant which has developed from the Gaelic prefix 'O', which is commonly used to indicate a patrilineal ancestor such as a grandfather or great-grandfather. The name O'Devan is thought to mean 'grandson of Devane'.

Despite its Celtic origin, Devane is a relatively uncommon surname. Yet, it has been borne by some notable figures, including Irish author Mary Devane, American actress Katherine Devane and Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney.

Famous people with the name Devane

• William Devane: American actor, known for roles in Knots Landing, 24, The Dark Knight Rises, and Designated Survivor.
• Greg Evigan: American actor, singer, and songwriter, known for roles in My Two Dads, Step by Step, and B.J. and the Bear.
• Luke Perry: American actor, known for roles in Beverly Hills, 90210, The Fifth Element, Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare, and Riverdale.
• Meg Devlin Irish: American country music singer and songwriter, known for songs such as "Can't Say Goodbye".
• Rachael Devine: Canadian television and film actress, known for roles in Reno 911! and Law & Order: Criminal Intent.
• Lynette Devane: American actor, known for roles in The Bold and the Beautiful and Lincoln Heights.
• Michael Devane: American actor, known for roles in The Unborn and The West Wing.
• Irish G Moeller: American stand-up comedian, known for appearances on shows such as Nash Bridges and Mad TV.
• Marc Devane: American actor, known for appearances in Malcolm in the Middle and Law & Order.
• Charles Devane: American actor, known for roles in The Last House on the Left and American Dreams.

Other surnames

Devany