Carey

Meaning and origin

The last name Carey has its origins in Ireland and derives from the Irish surname Ó Ciardha, meaning "descendant of Ciardha." The root name Ciardha is derived from the Gaelic word "ciar," meaning "dark" or "black." The Carey surname is predominantly associated with County Kilkenny in Ireland and has been recorded in historical documents dating back to the 12th century. Over time, variations of the name, such as Cary or Carrie, have emerged, but the core origin remains rooted in Irish ancestry.

The longer story

The last name Carey is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Ciardha. It is a patronymic surname, meaning it is based on the male ancestor's name. The prefix "Ó" means "descendant of," while "Ciardha" is believed to come from the Gaelic word for "dark" or "swarthy."

The Carey surname has ancient roots in Ireland, with the earliest recorded instances dating back to the 12th century. The clan associated with the surname played a significant role in Irish history, specifically in County Cork and County Kilkenny.

Over time, the Carey surname spread beyond Ireland, particularly to England and Scotland. As a result, there are now Carey families across several countries, including the United States.

Surname origins are rarely settled: one spelling can have several sources, and families often took a name for reasons nobody wrote down. Check it against the sources below before you rely on it.