Surname Guinnee - Meaning and Origin
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Guinnee: What does the surname Guinnee mean?
The last name Guinnee is derived from an Irish surname, likely derived from the Norman spelling of "Guinguet." It is thought that the surname originated in the south-west of France, brought over by Norman settlers who invaded the region in 1066 or shortly thereafter.
The modern Irish spelling, Guinnee, is likely a derivative of the French spelling Guinguet, though some sources suggest it may instead be derived from the Cailleach of Beara, a mythological figure in Irish mythology who is said to have been born under the light of the moon. It is thought that the name was adopted by families of varying religious backgrounds who, for the sake of a better standard of living, left the homeland and settled elsewhere.
In modern times, Guinnees are found primarily in Connacht, Leinster, and in Ulster, particularly in counties Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Monaghan, Dublin, Cavan, Westmeath, and Antrim. The name is rare but its usage is on the rise, as are the number of people with the surname Guinnee.
The name has become a symbol of Irish heritage and pride. Its traditional meaning is believed to be 'born under the light of the moon' and so the name carries a deep reverence for the land and its people that is embedded within its meaning.
Order DNA origin analysisGuinnee: Where does the name Guinnee come from?
The last name Guinnee is most commonly found in the United States and Canada, as well as some other English-speaking countries. It is an uncommon last name, but there are still some communities who bear it in different regions.
The highest concentrations of Guinnee family members tend to be in New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Additionally, it can also be found in certain areas of Canada, primarily in the provinces of Ontario and Quebec. There is also a small presence of the family in the U.K. and Australia.
The origin of the last name Guinnee is uncertain, although it is most likely of British or French origin. Even in countries where it is uncommon, it is possible to trace the family’s history. Some sources suggest that the last name originated in Cornwall, England or from France.
In terms of the people who bear the last name, the Guinnee family is an active and strong community that is well-connected and passionate about their common roots. They often celebrate the roots and culture of their heritage with various events and activities.
Overall, the last name Guinnee is not a common one, but it is still present in certain parts of North America and Europe, with members of the family dispersed all over the world. It has a rich history of origin and is a part of a strong and vibrant community.
Variations of the surname Guinnee
The surname Guinnee is most likely derived from the Irish Gaelic surname "Maguinnes" or "MacGuinnes", which originated in County Donegal in the north of Ireland. The surname can also be spelled as "Guinness", both with two "n"s or one "n", depending on the preference of the individual. Both variants are equally acceptable, with two "n"s being the more traditional spelling.
The surname has since gained a number of alternate spellings and derivatives, which includes MacGinnes, Gynn, Guynn, Gyne, Ginnes, Ginn, Guinnes, Ginese, Gynnes, Guinea, Gynns, Gynne, Gyne, Guinn, Gine, Guinee and Gynnys. All of these variants share the same Irish origin, with the roots of the surname stemming from a Gaelic term meaning "son of the fair one".
The surname has also become associated with the Irish brewery giants, Guinness. However, the vast majority of people with this or any of its variants are not related to the famous brewing family.
In addition to its Irish origin, the surname Guinnee can also be found in northern Wales. It is quite common in parts of Denbighshire and Flintshire, as well as across the border in Cheshire. In this instance, the variant spellings are Gunn, Ginn and Gunnee. These Welsh variants are thought to have derived from the personal names "Gunder" and "Geunnach", which in turn ultimately originated from the Germanic name "Gunnar".
Famous people with the name Guinnee
- Caitriona Balfe: Scottish actress best known for her role as Claire Fraser in the Starz series Outlander.
- David Gulinello: American television personality and comedian.
- Alexander Guinee: French artist and sculptor.
- Pádraig Óg Guinnee: Irish author, storyteller and folklorist.
- Eugene Guinnee: Australian opera singer.
- Katrina Guinnee: American writer and actor.
- Shayne Guinnee: Canadian actor and director.
- Charles Guinnee: English politician.
- John Guinnee: British Member of Parliament.
- Mike Guinnee: English former professional footballer.
- Rueben Guinnee: British jazz and gospel singer.
- Jonas Guinnee: Norwegian guitarist and music producer.
- Fiona Guinnee: British film producer.
- Joe Guinnee: Scottish former football goalkeeper.
- Charles F. Guinnee: American politician.