Last Name Hoey

Learn more about the origin of the last name Hoey

The meaning and origin of the last name Hoey

The surname Hoey is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic surname Ó hEochaidh or Ó hEochaidh, which means "descendant of Eochaidh." The name Eochaidh itself comes from the Gaelic word "eochaidh," meaning a horseman or a knight. It is a patronymic surname, indicating that it was originally given to denote lineage or descent from a notable ancestor. Hoey is common in counties Armagh, Down, and Louth in Ireland. The name has variations such as O'Hugh or Hughes. The Hoey family's history dates back to ancient times and is closely linked to the Uí Néill dynasty, one of the most significant and powerful clans in early Irish history. Over time, the surname Hoey has migrated to different parts of the world through Irish emigration, with many individuals of Hoey descent now residing in countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Geographical distribution of the last name Hoey

The last name Hoey has a relatively small geographical distribution, with the majority of individuals with this surname residing in the United States. The highest concentration of Hoey families can be found in the states of Pennsylvania, New York, and Illinois. Additionally, there is a significant population of Hoey individuals in Canada, particularly in the provinces of Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec. Outside North America, the name Hoey can also be found in Northern Ireland, where it has historical roots. However, the number of individuals with this surname in Northern Ireland is significantly smaller compared to the North American population. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Hoey suggests that it is predominantly an American and Canadian surname, with smaller populations in Northern Ireland.

Variants and spellings of the last name Hoey

The last name Hoey has numerous variations and spellings which can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, and migration patterns. Some of the common variations include Hooey, Houy, Howey, Hoy, Hooey, and Hoie. These variations often occur due to the different ways in which the name has been recorded or pronounced over the years. In certain regions, such as Ireland, additional variants such as Hooey and O'Hoe can also be found. The spelling of a surname can also be influenced by the individual or the family themselves, who may choose to alter the spelling for personal or aesthetic reasons. It is important to note that the variations and spellings listed here are not exhaustive, as there may be other unique and less common forms of the name that exist.

Famous people with the last name Hoey

There are several notable individuals with the last name Hoey who have achieved fame in their respective fields. One such person is Hugh Thomas Hoey, an American politician who served as the mayor of New York City from 1932 to 1933. During his tenure, he implemented various public works programs to alleviate the hardships caused by the Great Depression. Another prominent figure is Siobhán Hoey, an Irish actress recognized for her exceptional performances in both stage and screen productions. With her versatile acting skills and charismatic presence, Hoey has become a highly respected figure in the entertainment industry. Additionally, John Hoey is a renowned sports commentator and analyst, famous for his insightful analysis and passionate commentary during major sporting events. From politics to entertainment and sports, the Hoey name has left an indelible mark on various arenas, contributing to their respective fields in significant ways.

Genealogical research on the last name Hoey

The surname Hoey is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Ó hEochaidh, meaning "descendant of Eochaidh." It is believed to be a patronymic name, indicating descent from a forefather named Eochaidh. The Ó hEochaidh family were primarily found in County Meath in central Ireland. Over time, variants of the surname emerged, including Hooey and Howey, as families traveled and settled in different regions. Genealogical research indicates that the Hoey surname was predominantly concentrated in County Meath, but individuals with this last name can also be found in other parts of Ireland, such as County Down and County Louth. In some cases, the name may have migrated to other countries, particularly the United States, Canada, and Australia, through emigration. Today, individuals with the last name Hoey can be found worldwide, contributing to a diverse genealogical heritage.