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Last Name Cay

What is the origin of the last name Cay?

The last name "Cay" is of English, Scottish, and Welsh origin. It is derived from the Old Gaelic word "cath," which means "battle." The surname may have originated as a nickname for a fierce or warlike person.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Cay

The meaning and origin of the last name Cay

The surname Cay is of Catalan and Occitan origin, deriving from the Old Occitan word "cay" meaning "quay" or "pier." It is a toponymic surname, commonly used to identify someone who lived near or worked at a quay or pier. The surname is most commonly found in regions influenced by Catalan and Occitan culture, such as Catalonia in Spain and Occitania in France. Over time, the surname may have evolved and spread to other regions as individuals moved and settled in different areas. Today, individuals with the surname Cay can be found in various parts of the world, particularly in Spanish and French-speaking countries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cay

The last name Cay is most commonly found in the Philippines, specifically in the region of Visayas. It is also prevalent in other Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. In addition, the surname Cay can be found in certain parts of Europe, particularly in France and Spain. Furthermore, there are smaller populations of individuals with the last name Cay in the United States, particularly in states with large Asian communities like California and New York. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Cay is primarily concentrated in Southeast Asia, with smaller pockets of individuals carrying the surname in Europe and the United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cay

The last name Cay can be spelled in various ways, including Kay, Cai, Kae, Kai, and Khe. These variations may be due to differences in transliteration, regional dialects, or personal preference. Regardless of the spelling, the last name Cay remains distinct and may have different meanings or origins depending on cultural or historical factors. It is important to note these variations when researching family histories or conducting genealogical studies to ensure accuracy and clarity in documenting familial connections.

Famous people with the last name Cay

Some of the most famous individuals with the last name Cay include Michael Cay, an Australian businessman known for his role as the founder of Cay Yess and Caybase; Jo Cay, a French filmmaker known for her award-winning documentaries and short films; and Maria Cay, a Spanish artist recognized for her abstract paintings and mixed media installations. These individuals have made significant contributions in their respective fields and have garnered international acclaim for their work.

Genealogical research on the last name Cay

The surname Cay is of English origin, deriving from the Old French word "cay" meaning "quay" or "dock". It is believed to have originally been a topographic name for someone who lived near a quay or dock. The surname Cay has been found in records dating back to the 13th century in England, particularly in the counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire. Variants of the surname include Key, Kay, and Cays. One notable individual with the surname Cay was John Cay, an English politician who served as the Member of Parliament for Scarborough in the 18th century. The Cay surname has since spread to other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia through immigration and settlement.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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