Kavanagh Family Crest and Surname Origin
A short guide to the Kavanagh surname: its meaning, its roots in Ireland, and its heraldry.
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Origin of the Kavanagh name
Kavanagh comes from Caomhánach, "born of Caomhán" or "follower of Saint Caomhán". The name was first borne by Domhnall Caomhánach, son of Diarmait Mac Murchada, king of Leinster. The Kavanaghs became a powerful Leinster dynasty, strong in Carlow, Wexford and Wicklow.
Our historical archives hold much more on the Kavanagh name: dates, names and records of early bearers.
This overview covers the Kavanagh name in Ireland. We also hold records of the name in other countries, such as the United States, England and Australia; your full pack is researched for your family's country of origin.
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The researched Kavanagh pack traces meaning, early bearers and migration routes, and includes a personalized Kavanagh coat of arms.
Kavanagh name FAQ
What does the Kavanagh name mean?
Follower of Caomhán. Common variants include Cavanagh, Cavanaugh, Kavanaugh.
Where does the Kavanagh surname come from?
It originates in Ireland, and is also found in the United States, England and Australia.
Is there a Kavanagh coat of arms?
Arms were granted to individuals, not whole surnames, so there is no single Kavanagh crest. Herald Lab paints a personalized Kavanagh coat of arms based on historic heraldry.
Researched by Herald Lab Research Studio, since 1993. Sources: MacLysaght, The Surnames of Ireland; Dictionary of American Family Names (Oxford).