McKenna Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname McKenna come from? What does the surname McKenna mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name McKenna and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname McKenna Origin: What does the last name McKenna mean?
The surname McKenna is of Irish origin, deriving from the Gaelic name Cinéad, meaning "born of fire." It can also be traced back to the Gaelic Mac Cionaodha, indicating "son of Cionnaith," or the Scottish surname from Galloway, "MacCionaodha." The McKennas were historically known as "The Lords of Truagh" in Truagh, County Monaghan, Ulster, Ireland. In Munster Irish, McKenna is associated with Mag Cineáit, with variations like Kenny, Kenney, and Kennedy. The name has a strong presence in Ireland and the United States, with records dating back to the early 16th century in Northern Ireland.
YourRoots data confirms the early appearance of the McKenna surname in Northern Ireland around the 16th century. Over time, the name expanded globally, with significant concentrations in Ireland and the United States. The surname McKenna reflects a deep-rooted Irish heritage, with a notable presence in various countries worldwide, showcasing its enduring popularity and widespread distribution across different regions and cultures.
McKenna Last Name History: Where did the last name McKenna come from?
Origin of Mckenna Surname: Where does the last name Mckenna originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Mckenna first appeared in records from Northern Ireland (United Kingdom) around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Mckenna spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Mckenna: What does the Mckenna surname history look like in the early days?
The Mckenna surname remained closely associated with Ireland in the 17th and 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Mckenna family records in countries like United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Mckenna surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Mckenna surname grew significantly in United States. The Mckenna surname remains prominent in Ireland and United States.
Explore McKenna last name heritage and McKenna surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With McKenna Surame?
Terence McKenna
Terence Kemp McKenna (Nov 16, 1946 – Apr 3, 2000) was an American ethnobotanist and mystic known for advocating the responsible use of psychedelic plants. He explored subjects like shamanism, metaphysics, and the origins of human consciousness. McKenna formulated novelty theory based on fractal patterns in the I Ching, predicting a consciousness shift in 2012. Dubbed the "Timothy Leary of the '90s," he influenced rave culture and the 2012 phenomenon. McKenna's life included studying shamanism, psychedelic experiments, and ecological conservation. His work and ideas continue to spark discussions and debates in the realms of psychedelics, consciousness, and environmentalism.
Kieran McKenna
Kieran McKenna (May 14, 1986 - present) is a former professional football player turned successful football manager. Born in England but raised in Northern Ireland, McKenna started his career playing for Tottenham Hotspur before transitioning to coaching. He worked with top clubs like Manchester United before becoming the manager of Ipswich Town in 2021. Known for his tactical acumen and leadership skills, McKenna has guided Ipswich Town to consecutive promotions, showcasing his talent in the competitive world of football management.
Virginia McKenna
Dame Virginia Anne McKenna (born 7 Jun, 1931) is a British actress, author, and animal rights activist. She gained fame for her roles in films like A Town Like Alice (1956), Carve Her Name with Pride (1958), and Born Free (1966). McKenna's work with the Born Free Foundation and her advocacy for wildlife conservation have solidified her legacy in both the entertainment industry and the animal rights movement. She was recognized with multiple awards for her performances on screen and stage throughout her career, making her a beloved figure in British cinema.
Megan McKenna
Megan Elizabeth McKenna (born 26 Sep, 1992) is an English television personality, singer, and reality TV star. She gained fame from shows like "Ex on the Beach," "Celebrity Big Brother," and "The Only Way Is Essex." McKenna also won "The X Factor: Celebrity" in 2019. Apart from TV, she has released music albums, competed in "Celebrity MasterChef," and authored books. With Irish heritage, she faced challenges like bullying and health issues. McKenna's personal life includes relationships with fellow celebrities and a move to Germany. Her journey from reality TV to music stardom has been eventful and inspiring to many.
Declan McKenna
Declan Benedict McKenna (December 24, 1998 - ) is an English singer-songwriter known for his protest song "Brazil" criticizing FIFA. He gained fame after winning the Glastonbury Festival's Emerging Talent Competition in 2015 and released his debut album "What Do You Think About the Car?" in 2017. McKenna's music addresses social and political issues, showcasing his talent as a thoughtful and passionate young artist.
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