Last Name Mckeever

The last name McKeever is of Irish origin. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name "Mac Iomaire," which means "son of Iomar." The prefix "Mac" denotes "son of" in Gaelic, while "Iomaire" is derived from the word "iomar," meaning "prosperity" or "luck." So, McKeever signifies a descendant of someone named Iomar or someone associated with prosperity or luck.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mckeever

The meaning and origin of the last name Mckeever

The surname McKeever is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name Mac Íomhair, meaning "son of Íomhar." Íomhar is an old Irish personal name derived from the Norse name Ivar, meaning "archer" or "bow warrior." The name Mac Íomhair was anglicized to McKeever, with the prefix 'Mc' indicating "son of." The McKeever family is mainly associated with County Antrim in Northern Ireland. They were known to be a sept (clan) of the larger Irish clan known as the O'Neills. The McKeever clan had a prominent presence in the region and were associated with the political and military landscape of the area. Over time, members of the McKeever family migrated to other locations, such as North America and other parts of the world. Today, individuals with the surname McKeever can still be found worldwide, honoring their Irish heritage and ancestral roots back to the original Mac Íomhair clan.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mckeever

The last name McKeever has a primarily Irish origin and is most commonly found in Ireland and the United Kingdom. In Ireland, the surname is particularly prevalent in the northern regions. Specifically, it is associated with County Antrim, particularly around the town of Ballymoney, where the McKeever surname has strong roots. Additionally, it can be found in other parts of Northern Ireland such as County Down and County Armagh. In the United Kingdom, the name is mainly concentrated in Scotland and England, with notable concentrations in Glasgow, Scotland, and Manchester, England. Due to emigration patterns, McKeever can also be found in various parts of the United States, such as New York, Pennsylvania, and Illinois, reflecting the movement of Irish immigrants to North America. Moreover, there may be smaller pockets of individuals with the McKeever surname in other parts of the world where Irish immigration has occurred.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mckeever

The last name McKeever can be found with several variations in spelling due to regional accents and spelling preferences. Some common variations include MacKeever, McIver, Maghever, McKever, McEver, MacIvor, Mckeffer, McEvor, McKeffer, MacIver, and McGeever. These variations often stem from the Irish origin of the name, as "Mc" and "Mac" both mean "son of" in Gaelic, but were sometimes anglicized differently over time. The name itself is derived from the Old Gaelic surname Mac Íomhair, meaning "son of Íomhar," with Íomhar being a personal name of uncertain etymology. Families with the last name McKeever can be found predominantly in Ireland, Scotland, and parts of North America where Irish and Scottish descendants settled. Despite the various spellings, all variations generally trace back to the same Gaelic heritage, representing a diverse and widespread family name.

Famous people with the last name Mckeever

Mckeever is a last name that has been associated with several accomplished individuals in various fields. One such notable figure is Una McKeever, an esteemed Irish nutritionist and dietitian who gained international recognition for her expertise in the field of healthy eating and weight management. Her extensive research and practical approach have earned her accolades, making her a sought-after speaker and consultant in the industry. Another prominent name in the world of art is Bernard McKeever, a renowned British painter known for his abstract and expressionist style. His works, characterized by bold colors and energetic brushstrokes, have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums worldwide, cementing his reputation as an influential artist. In the realm of sports, Liam McKeever stands out as a former professional soccer player from Northern Ireland. He achieved great success throughout his career, playing for several notable clubs and earning numerous accolades, including multiple championships and international call-ups. Together, these individuals exemplify the diverse talents and accomplishments associated with the last name McKeever.

Genealogical research on the last name Mckeever

The last name McKeever is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic "Mac Iomhair" or "Mac Amhairgín," meaning "son of Iomhair" or "son of Amhairgín." The McKeever surname has a rich history and can be traced back to the ancient kingdom of Ulster in Northern Ireland. The earliest records show that the McKeever family belonged to the Oriel region, which encompasses parts of modern-day counties Armagh, Louth, and Monaghan. Over time, the McKeever clan spread throughout Ireland, with notable concentrations in counties Antrim and Down. They were prominent in agricultural and laboring communities and played active roles in both local and national affairs. Some famous McKeever individuals include politicians, scholars, and athletes who have contributed significantly to Irish society. Today, the McKeever surname is found around the world, particularly in countries with significant Irish diaspora communities, reflecting the migration and dispersion of the family throughout the centuries.

Share the origin of your last name with your friends