Surname MacKervey - Meaning and Origin
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MacKervey: What does the surname MacKervey mean?
The surname MacKervey is an anglicised version of ‘Mac Iomhair Bheatha’ meaning ‘son of the boy of life’. The name MacKervey first originated in the county of Ayrshire, south-western Scotland, where it has been found since the early 16th century. The first recorded spelling of the family name was MacIverie and is recorded in the Old Millennium Tax List of Scotland in 1420.
The presence of the name MacKervey in Scotland is a testament to the proud heritage of the Scottish people. It is likely that the name was brought to Scotland by their Scandinavian ancestors, who sailed to the distant island in search of adventure and new lands. Over time, the name was adapted to fit the local language and culture.
The roots of MacKervey can be traced back further to Ireland, where the original spelling was Mac Iomhair Bheatha. This term was derived from the Gaelic word ‘iomair’ meaning ‘boy’ and ‘bheatha’ meaning ‘life’. The term itself speaks to the proud heritage of one’s ancestors and the idea that their legacy has persisted throughout the generations.
The surname MacKervey is often seen associated with a stoic and courageous spirit in its bearers. Those with the name often have a strong sense of justice and are willing to take risks in order to defend their beliefs. Those with this name tend to be driven by principles and a passion for life, often displaying a certain determination and dedication to their causes.
Order DNA origin analysisMacKervey: Where does the name MacKervey come from?
The last name MacKervey is most commonly found in the United States and Australia today. In the United States, the last name MacKervey is most commonly found in the Northeast and Midwest, with significant concentrations in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Ohio.
In Australia, the last name MacKervey is most common in the state of Victoria, with notable concentrations in its capital, Melbourne. Outside of the US and Australia, the last name MacKervey is also found in the UK, particularly in Scotland, and Ireland.
The MacKervey surname is believed to have originated in Scotland, and it is thought to be derived from a Scottish placename where the name originator may have been from. Alternatively, it may have begun as an Anglicized form of the Gaelic Mac Eachmhairi, which also translates to 'son of Eachmhairi'.
Overall, the last name MacKervey is considered to be a Scotch-Irish surname, as its etymology is believed to have been heavily influenced by both Scots and Gaelic origins. Today, the last remains an uncommon but widely distributed across the US, Australia, the UK, and Ireland.
Variations of the surname MacKervey
The MacKervey surname has several variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin. The different possible variations of the name include Mac Kevy, McAvery, MacAvera, MacAvery, MacFever, MacKevie, MacGevy, MacGovery, and MacKeever. The MacKervey surname is derived from the Gaelic Mac Tíobair which translates to "son of Tíobair".
The MacKervey surname is likely derived from the original Scot-Irish personal name of Tíobair. The root name for the Tíobair, which translates to "well of waters", is derived from the Gaelic resources of the Cleiteach. The Cleiteach was the personal name of the son of Oilioll Olum, High King of Ireland in the 3rd century.
Variants of the MacKervey surname in England include MacKeever, Makiver, MacAvera, MacGevy, Mackvery, MacFever, MacGovery and MacKevie. In Scotland, there are several other spellings and variations of the MacKervey name including MacKeever, Mackeivri, Mackevvi, Macheever, Mackivore, Mackovore, McAfee and McEvoy.
In America, the spelling of the MacKervey surname has been changed or simplified to Mackery or MacKerey. In Australia, the spelling is slightly different, such as Makery or MacKerrey.
The MacKervey surname is still found in some villages in County Leitrim, Ireland, and is also prevalent in the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Australia, and New Zealand.
Famous people with the name MacKervey
- Dan MacKervey: actor who has appeared in “Matlock,” “Full House,” “In the Heat of the Night,” “Beethoven’s 4th” and “Touchstone Pictures” projects.
- Will MacKervey: British actor, best known for his role in the soap opera "Brookside," as musician Jimmy Cassidy.
- Ed MacKervey: motivational speaker and executive coach who has served as Senior vice president of Performance in the sports world.
- Kelly MacKervey: Canadian actress who has starred in numerous films, including “A Dog’s Breakfast” and “I Spy” and television shows like “Everwood.”
- Tim MacKervey: American country singer and songwriter whose songs have been featured in various movies.
- Larry MacKervey: former NBA basketball player who played for the New Jersey Nets, Detroit Pistons, and Washington Bullets.
- Jack MacKervey: American writer and humourist who has penned several books such as “The Curse of the Cannoli” and “Buffet of Laughs.”
- Paul MacKervey: Canadian businessman and entrepreneur who served as President and CEO of KFC Canada from 1994 to 2015.
- Alan MacKervey: versatile Scottish-born actor who has performed in films, television series, and stage productions.
- Mark MacKervey: sportscaster who has provided play-by-play and color commentary for the PGA, USGA, Honda Classic and Ryder Cup.