Keys Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Keys come from? What does the surname Keys mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Keys and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Keys Origin: What does the last name Keys mean?
The surname Keys is of English origin and first appeared in records from Northern Ireland in the early 18th century, according to YourRoots data. It remained closely associated with Northern Ireland and England from the 17th to 19th centuries. By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Keys surname grew significantly in England, where it remains prominent today.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Keys surname in the United Kingdom since the early 18th century. The surname has a strong historical connection to Northern Ireland and England, with a notable increase in records in England by the 20th century. Today, the Keys surname continues to be prominent in England and Northern Ireland, reflecting its enduring legacy in these regions.
Keys Last Name History: Where did the last name Keys come from?
Origin of Keys Surname: Where does the last name Keys originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Keys first appeared in records from Northern Ireland (United Kingdom) around the early 18th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Keys spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Keys: What does the Keys surname history look like in the early days?
The Keys surname remained closely associated with Northern Ireland and England (United Kingdom) from the 17th to 19th centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Keys surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Keys surname grew significantly in England (United Kingdom). The Keys surname remains prominent in England and Northern Ireland.
Explore Keys last name heritage and Keys surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Keys Surame?
Alicia Keys
Alicia Augello Cook (January 25, 1981 - Present), known professionally as Alicia Keys, is an American singer and songwriter. She gained fame with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which won five Grammy Awards. Keys has released multiple successful albums, including "The Diary of Alicia Keys" and "As I Am," with hit singles like "No One" and "Empire State of Mind." Beyond music, she has ventured into acting, philanthropy, and activism, co-founding the nonprofit organization Keep a Child Alive. Keys is celebrated for her powerful vocals, piano skills, and impactful contributions to the music industry.
Madison Keys
Madison Keys (Feb 17, 1995 - ) is an American professional tennis player known for her powerful forehand and aggressive playing style. She has won ten career singles titles, including the 2025 Australian Open. Keys turned pro at 14 and quickly rose through the ranks, reaching the top 10 of the WTA rankings in 2016. Inspired by Venus Williams, she has become a leader in American tennis, excelling on all surfaces and in all four major tournaments. Keys continues to make waves in the tennis world with her talent and determination.
Richard Keys
Richard Keith Keys (April 23, 1957 - present) is an English sports presenter known for his work with major networks like BBC, Sky, and BeIN Sports. Keys has covered top-level football matches and has been a staple in sports broadcasting since the 1970s. He has received awards for his contributions to sports broadcasting and has also been involved in charity work, supporting organizations like Nordoff-Robbins and the Willow Foundation. Keys' career has seen highs and lows, including a departure from Sky Sports in 2011 due to controversial comments. Despite setbacks, Keys continues to be a prominent figure in sports media.
Ancel Keys
Ancel Benjamin Keys (Jan 26, 1904 – Nov 20, 2004) was an American physiologist known for his research on the influence of diet on health. He popularized the Mediterranean diet and developed K-rations for combat soldiers in World War II. Keys published groundbreaking studies on starvation and cardiovascular disease, shaping modern dietary recommendations. His work on fish physiology and high-altitude adaptation revolutionized the field. Despite controversy, his legacy in nutrition science endures today.
Bobby Keys
Robert Henry Keys (Dec 18, 1943 – Dec 2, 2014) was an American saxophonist known for his work with iconic musicians like the Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, and Joe Cocker. He played on numerous hit songs, including the saxophone solo on the Rolling Stones' "Brown Sugar." Keys toured extensively and was a prominent figure in the music industry throughout the 1970s and beyond. His talent and friendship with Keith Richards solidified his legacy as a respected musician and collaborator in the rock music scene.
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