Surname Kinney - Meaning and Origin
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A New Perspective on My Surname and Identity: Experiencing the iGENEA DNA Test
Undertaking the iGENEA DNA test was more than just discovering my biological ancestry; it was a journey of self-discovery that has allowed me to reevaluate the significance of my surname 'Kinney'. The test didn't just inform me about my heritage but enabled me to understand and appreciate the diversity and complexity embedded in my family identity.
J. Kinney
read moreKinney: What does the surname Kinney mean?
The last name Kinney is an English patronymic surname derived from the Middle English given name Kyne, meaning "king". In medieval England only the ruling class had the right to hold land, and consequently income, and Kinney was often used as a title of respect for the ruling family. This surname is most commonly found in North America, where families bearing this name have been present since the eighteenth century.
The surname Kinney is derived from a nickname that was given to someone who was believed to possess a regal air or bearing, which is why the surname itself is a derived from the Middle English word “kyne” meaning “king”.
For example, in England during the 11th and 12th centuries, "Kyne" was frequently used to refer to the ruling classes and to those who were able to hold land. This usage of the word is what eventually led to the surname Kinney. Therefore, Kinney is not simply a name but rather a title of respect and pride for the ruling family members.
The surname Kinney has a long and complex history, beginning as a nickname or title of respect for those of a ruling family. The name has since spread and is found around the world. Those with the surname Kinney can be justifiably proud of their heritage and the path their family has taken to reach them.
Order DNA origin analysisKinney: Where does the name Kinney come from?
The last name Kinney is fairly common in the United States today, with over 18,000 individuals estimated to share the name. It is most common in the Northeast, particularly in New York and Connecticut. The name is particularly common in Jamaica, however, where it has been established for over a century. Kinneys were sent there from Scotland in the 19th century to work in the sugar industry, and the name has been passed down ever since.
The last name Kinney can also be found in England, Ireland, Australia, and Canada, although not in the same concentrations as in the United States and Jamaica. In England, it is most commonly found in Warwickshire and Worcestershire. In Ireland, it is more common in the east, in Counties Wicklow, Kildare, and Dublin, while in Australia it is most common in Western Australia. Finally, in Canada, it is seen most prominently in Ontario and British Columbia.
Though it is found in other countries, the name Kinney is most common in the United States and Jamaica. The population of Kinneys in these two countries makes up the bulk of the worldwide distribution of the name.
Variations of the surname Kinney
The surname Kinney is derived from the Irish surname 'Mac Cionaoith' - meaning 'son of Cionaoith'. This surname is found most commonly in Ireland, Wales, Scotland, England, and the United States.
Kinney, Kenney, Keney, Kenny, Kennie, Kinnie, and Kiny are some of the variants and alternate spellings of the surname kinney that can be used.
Other surnames related to the Kinney surname are Buckingham, Kenyon, Canno, Canney, Cadena, Conney, Kenny, Kennie, Kinnie, Kiny, Kenney, Keney, McKeaney, McKenney, Kinne, McEnney, and McKenney.
The surname has also been recorded as other variants or spellings such as McKenny, McKinnie, Mackinnie, Gennie, Makenny, Mecenny, and Stanney.
The surname can also be spelled as MacKiney, McKiney, MacKenny, Kinny, Mckenne, Mckinne, Kenety, and McKennie.
Due to so many variations in spelling Kinney, it is almost impossible to trace or discern the exact origin of the surname. The variations and spellings in the surname are often dependent on the regional and language differences between people from different cultures.
Famous people with the name Kinney
- Melissa Kinney: American improvisational theatre artist, improvisor, and Yak Shave dance performer
- Vincent Kinney: composer and music producer
- Thomas Kinney: American actor
- Ryan Kinney: American actor
- Kellen Kinney: former professional soccer player
- Harry Kinney: Major League Baseball player
- Jennie Kinney: NBA Rookie of the Year
- Christopher Kinney: American professional golfer
- Taylor Kinney: American actor
- Willey Kinney: American golfer
- Matthew Kinney: former MLB pitcher
- Madison Kinney: former Olympic diver
- Justin Kinney: professional skateboarder
- Evan Kinney: Canadian actor
- Emma Kinney: American singer-songwriter
- Cole Kinney: American YouTube star
- Don Kinney: American football player
- Sam Kinney: British journalist
- Adam Kinney: former NFL player
- Hayden Kinney: American football coach