The Chanay Family Name

People called Chanay share their surname's story with Chaney, of which it is a variant. The name is usually explained as “Oak grove”.

Chanay and Chaney

Chanay is listed among the recognised spellings of Chaney. Before spelling was standardised, one family could appear under several forms. You may also find the name written Cheyney.

In the records

INSEE counts 238 people born in France with the Chanay surname between 1891 and 2000; the busiest decade was 1941–1950. The name became more frequent over the century.

Chanay coat of arms

Arms linked to Chaney and its spellings were granted to individual families; our heraldry team traces which line they belonged to.

Research your Chanay family history with a full surname report and painted coat of arms.