Last Name Carey

Learn more about the origin of the last name Carey

The meaning and origin of the last name Carey

The surname Carey has two possible origins and meanings. Firstly, it can be derived from the Irish surname Ó Ciardha, meaning "descendant of Ciar," which translates to "dark-haired" or "black-haired" in Gaelic. This variant is predominantly found in Ireland, particularly in County Cork. Secondly, Carey can also originate from the Old French word "carri," which means "one who lives by a stream" or "dweller by the stream." This alternative is more common in England and was likely given as a locational surname to individuals living near streams or rivers. The name Carey can be found in both medieval Irish and English records, with various spelling variations such as Cary, Carew, and Carrey. Over time, families with the surname Carey have spread across the globe, and individuals with this name can be found in many English-speaking countries today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Carey

The last name Carey has a rather diverse geographical distribution, with significant concentrations found in several countries. In the United States, Carey is most prevalent in the states of Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New York, California, and Illinois. The United Kingdom also has a significant presence of Carey, particularly in England, with concentrations in London, Kent, and Essex. Ireland is another country where the name is prevalent, particularly in County Cork, County Kerry, and County Mayo. Canada is home to a notable number of Careys as well, with higher concentrations in the provinces of Ontario, Newfoundland, and Labrador. Australia also has a considerable population of Careys, especially in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. Furthermore, the name can be found scattered across other countries, such as France, Germany, and South Africa, indicating its global reach and diverse origins.

Variants and spellings of the last name Carey

The last name "Carey" has various spellings and variations depending on different regions and historical records. One of the most common variations is "Cary," which is believed to be an anglicized version of the original name. Another variation is "Carie," which is known to have French origins. Additionally, the surname can be spelled as "Carrey" or even "Kerry" in some cases. These alternative spellings may have arisen due to factors like dialectal differences, phonetic transcription, or simply personal preference. It is worth noting that alternate spellings can make genealogical research challenging, as one variant may have been used interchangeably with another, leading to potential confusion or incorrect identification. Therefore, individuals researching the surname "Carey" should keep an open mind regarding possible spelling variations while tracing their ancestry, considering that the name has evolved and been adapted over time.

Famous people with the last name Carey

Mariah Carey is one of the most famous and iconic singers of our time. With her incredible vocal range and numerous chart-topping hits, Carey has solidified her place in music history. Mariah's powerful and soulful voice has captivated audiences worldwide, earning her five Grammy Awards and numerous accolades. Another notable member of the Carey family is Drew Carey, an American comedian, actor, and game show host. Drew is best known for hosting "The Price Is Right" and for his sitcom "The Drew Carey Show." With his unique wit and charm, he has become a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Additionally, Harry Carey was a renowned American actor who made a significant impact during the silent film era. Known for his roles in Western films, Harry Carey is considered one of the founding fathers of Hollywood. The Carey family has truly left an indelible mark in music, comedy, and cinema.

Genealogical research on the last name Carey

The surname Carey has a rich and diverse genealogical history. It is derived from the Gaelic Irish name Ó Ciardha, which means "descendant of Ciardha," a personal name meaning "dark-haired." The Carey family can trace its roots back to ancient Ireland, specifically the region of County Kerry. Over time, the Carey name expanded beyond Ireland and became prominent in England, Scotland, and Wales due to migration and intermarriage. In England, particularly in the county of Lancashire, the Carey surname became associated with various notable families, including the Careys of Cockington and the Careys of Plas Abbey. In addition to these locations, the name Carey can also be found in regions such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where Irish and British immigrants settled and established their families. Today, individuals with the surname Carey can be found in various parts of the world, continuing the enduring legacy of this distinguished name.