Kennedy Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Kennedy come from? What does the surname Kennedy mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Kennedy and family migration on YourRoots Map.
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Surname Kennedy Origin: What does the last name Kennedy mean?
The Kennedy surname has Irish origins and is derived from the Gaelic term Ó Cinnéide, meaning "grandson of Cinnédidh" or "grandson of Cinnéidigh". This Gaelic name translates to "helmet-headed", showcasing a strong connection to ancient Gaelic culture. The surname has been used in Ireland and Scotland, with separate Kennedy families and clans existing in both regions.
According to YourRoots data, the Kennedy surname first appeared in Scotland during the early 13th century, later spreading to countries like the United States and Ireland in the following centuries. Today, the Kennedy surname is prevalent worldwide, with significant populations in the United States, Scotland, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and more. This surname's historical significance and widespread distribution highlight a deep-rooted family history that transcends borders and continues to thrive in diverse cultures.
Kennedy Last Name History: Where did the last name Kennedy come from?
Origin of Kennedy Surname: Where does the last name Kennedy originate from?
The earliest record of the surname Kennedy in the YourRoots database hails from Scotland during the early 13th century. It's important to note that this data specifically pertains to the exact spelling "Kennedy" within the YourRoots database, and doesn't account for other record sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Kennedy: What does the Kennedy surname history look like in the early days?
The Kennedy surname remained largely associated with Scotland from the 13th through the 16th century, as per the YourRoots data. However, it began to grow notably in other countries such as the United States and Ireland from the 17th century onwards, indicating a wider geographical spread over time.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Kennedy surname today?
As of the 17th century, the frequency of records bearing the Kennedy surname experienced remarkable growth in the United States, eventually surpassing Scotland in volume of records. This trend escalated during the 18th and 19th centuries, and persists into the 20th and 21st centuries. Today, the Kennedy surname is prominently found in numerous countries worldwide, including but not limited to the United States, Scotland, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Germany, France, and the Netherlands.
Explore Kennedy last name heritage and Kennedy surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Kennedy Surame?
Jamie Kennedy
James Harvey Kennedy (May 25, 1970 - ) is an American actor and comedian known for his roles in the Scream film series and hosting The Jamie Kennedy Experiment. He has appeared in various films and TV shows, showcasing his talent in comedy and acting.
Jessica Parker Kennedy
Jessica Parker Kennedy (born Oct 3, 1984) is a Canadian actress known for her roles in popular TV series like The Flash and Black Sails. She has also appeared in Smallville and The Secret Circle, showcasing her talent and versatility on screen.
Mimi Kennedy
Mary Claire "Mimi" Kennedy (born Sept 25, 1948) is an American actress, author, and activist. Best known for her roles in sitcoms like Dharma & Greg and Mom, she has also appeared in films like Erin Brockovich and Midnight in Paris. Kennedy is involved in progressive causes and serves as chairperson for Progressive Democrats of America.
Leon Isaac Kennedy
Leon Isaac Kennedy (January 1, 1949 - ) is a retired American actor, disc jockey, film producer, and playwright known for his roles in films like "Penitentiary" and "Body and Soul." He also became a Christian evangelist in the early 1990s and has been married three times.
Mary Kennedy
Mary Kennedy (Máire Ní Chinnéide) (Oct 4, 1954 - ) is an Irish television personality, former newscaster, and writer. She presented the Eurovision Song Contest 1995 and hosted various shows on RTÉ. Kennedy is also known for her writing, with published memoirs and books.
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