Haney

Meaning and origin

The last name Haney originates from the anglicized form of the Gaelic name O'hEithir, meaning "descendant of Eithir." Eithir is believed to come from the Irish word "eitir," which translates to "jealousy" or "strife." The surname indicates a connection to the ancient Gaelic clans of Ireland, highlighting the deep-rooted genealogical heritage and historical lineage associated with the name Haney.

The longer story

Haney is a last name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic name "Ó hEighnigh," which translates to "descendant of Eignech." The name Eignech is a personal name that was common in medieval Ireland, but its etymology and meaning are uncertain.

The Haney surname has undergone various spelling variations over the centuries, including Hanney, Hanee, Heaney, Hegney, Hegney, Haganey, Hanegan, and many others. This variation can be attributed to several factors, including the lack of standardized spelling in early records and the influence of different dialects and accents.

Historical records indicate that the Haney surname has been present in Ireland since at least the 15th century. The name is primarily associated with the northern counties of Ulster, particularly County Derry and County Antrim. Haney families were also found in County Down and County Donegal.

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.