Surname Burke - Meaning and Origin

Navigating Genetic Lineage & Discovering Connections: My Experience with iGENEA DNA Test

Embarking on a journey into my genetic lineage with iGENEA DNA test has been fascinating. This review explores the intriguing discoveries and connections I stumbled upon, especially around my surname Burke, and the invaluable support I received from iGENEA throughout this journey.

L. Burke

Burke: What does the surname Burke mean?

The last name Burke is of Irish origin and derived from the Gaelic name "de Burca" or "de Búrca," which means "of the borough." It is derived from the Old English word "burh" meaning "a fortified settlement" or "fortress." Historically, it was the surname of one of the Hiberno-Norman noble families in Ireland who gained significant power and became influential in affairs of state. The Burkes initially arrived in Ireland as part of the Norman invasion during the 12th century. Over the centuries, many family members Anglicized the original name "de Burca" to "Burke" to suit the English phonetic and linguistic patterns. Today, Burke is a common surname in many English-speaking countries, particularly Ireland, the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Burke: Where does the name Burke come from?

The surname Burke is an anglicized form of the Irish surname "Ó or Uí Bhroin," which means “descendant of Boru”. It is often linked to the Irish clan of Burke, which originated from William FitzAdelm de Burgo, a knight who arrived in Ireland in 1169. The clan grew in power, establishing themselves as earls and lords in various regions notably, Clanricarde and Mayo. The surname gradually spread from Ireland to England and Scotland due to migration and colonization.

Today, Burke remains a significant name in Ireland but it does not limit its popularity within its borders. As a result of migration during the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly due to the potato famine, the surname can be commonly found among Irish diaspora in countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, and the UK. In the United States, according to census records, it is most densely populated in New York, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. Although geographically dispersed globally, this name carries rich historical and cultural significance tracing back to ancient Ireland.

Variations of the surname Burke

The surname Burke is widely associated with Irish origin. It stemmed from the Norman surname de Burgh, meaning "from the castle" or "fortress". Variants for Burke can include Bourke, Burk, Buerk, Burgh, de Búrca in Irish. The surname has also taken many spelling forms over the centuries, likely due to phonetic interpretations and regional linguistic influences. These include Burks, Bourk, Bourke, Birks, Burgo, Burc, Burgh, or even De Burgo.

In Ireland, the surname Burke or Bourke is quite common, particularly in the western counties of Galway and Mayo where the original de Burghs, known as the "Mac William Burkes", established their lordships. The south of Ireland sees more prevalence of the "Bourke" spelling. The transformation of the surname over time and across geographies is a common phenomenon. Today, surnames such as Burke have a wider global reach due to emigration and have experienced further adaptations and variations.

Famous people with the name Burke

• Cheryl Burke: An American professional ballroom dancer, model, TV host, known for her participation in the reality TV show "Dancing with the Stars".
• Billie Burke: An American actress noted for her roles in the Wizard of Oz and Glinda the Good Witch.
• Brooke Burke: An American actress, dancer, model, and television personality known for hosting Dancing with the Stars.
• James Lee Burke: A renowned American author best known for his mysteries.
• Edmund Burke: An important 18th-century Irish politician, author, and philosopher who served in the British parliament.
• Robert Burke: An Australian actor.
• Delta Burke: An American actress, producer, and author.
• Kevin Burke: A notable traditional Irish musician.
• Kathy Burke: An English actress, comedian, and director.
• Alexandra Burke: A famous British singer and songwriter.
• Arleigh Burke: A U.S. Navy Admiral.
• Tracy Burke: An American bodybuilder.
• Solomon Burke: A popular American singer and songwriter.
• Kenneth Burke: Renowned American literary theorist and philosopher.
• Brian Burke: Former professional ice hockey executive and current analyst on NHL on Sportsnet.

Other surnames

BurkBürkBurkardBurkardsmaierBurkardtBurkartBurkarthBurkartsmaierBurkeholderBurkelBürkelBurkenBurkenbeilBurkenbeuhlBurkenbeyBurkenbeylyBurkenbineBürkenstockBurkepileBürkerBurkertBürkertBurkerthBurketBurkettBurkeypileBurkhalterBurkhardBurkhardsmaierBurkhardt