Surname Kilvant - Meaning and Origin
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Kilvant: What does the surname Kilvant mean?
The last name Kilvant has origins in Ireland and Scotland and is derived from two Gaelic words: “ciol” meaning loving or kind and “fhionn”, meaning fair. It therefore embodies the qualities of loyalty, kindness, and fairness.
The Kilvant family traces its earliest members back to the twelfth century in Clones, County Monaghan, Ireland. As aristocrats, the family distinguished itself as a well-respected and influential branch of the larger O’Fiaich clan. Members of the Kilvant family have had a long and illustrious history of being both professional warriors and esteemed scholars. In more modern times, they have carried on their proud tradition of service as both elected officials and military personnel.
The Kilvant family has played an important role in Ireland’s history and development. Its members have been instrumental in the foundation of local government and educational facilities in Monaghan and Donegal. There are also records of Kilvant's relatives leading successful businesses, from farming to industrial production.
The Kilvant family has also carried its legacy around the world. Members have emigrated to the United States, England, and Australia in particular, making their mark in their respective fields of endeavor. Equally, the Kilvant name has become prominent in the workings of various international organizations, from politics to the arts.
All in all, the Kilvant name embodies an enduring spirit of loyalty, kindness, and fairness that has left a lasting impression on Irish and world history. Throughout the centuries, the Kilvant family has resiliently embraced its commitment to service and justice.
Order DNA origin analysisKilvant: Where does the name Kilvant come from?
The last name Kilvant is found primarily in Northern Ireland, though individual members of the Kilvant family can also be found throughout the globe. The Kilvant surname is most commonly associated with County Down, an area of Northern Ireland located on the eastern side of the island. The first recorded use of the surname dates back to 1640 when a family of Kilvants lived near Ballyroney in County Down. The largest concentration of those bearing the name is found in the city of Belfast today.
The Kilvant family has spread over the centuries, with different branches setting up homes across the United Kingdom, the United States, and even Australia. Despite this global spread, the Kilvant surname remains concentrated primarily in Northern Ireland.
The Kilvant family takes great pride in its heritage and identity. Descendants of the original Kilvant family from County Down still gather regularly for social gatherings, with the Kilvant name continuing to hold great significance for its founders and offspring. Numerous family reunions have taken place in recent years, connecting multiple generations back to the original family in County Down.
Today, the Kilvant surname is a proud reminder of the family’s Northern Irish roots. Despite widespread dispersal, the Kilvant family continues to inhabit areas around Northern Ireland, with the name remaining alive and present in the modern day.
Variations of the surname Kilvant
Kilvant is an uncommon surname of imagined Irish origin. It is believed to derive from the Irish surname Mac Giolla Mhantáin, which has its roots in the personal name Mhantáin and the meaning 'servant of St Mantan'. The variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin for Kilvant include:
Mac Giolla Mhantáin
This is the most common Irish spelling of Kilvant. It is derived from the name Mhantáin, which is derived from the Irish name St Mantan. This variant is more commonly found in Donegal, Carlow, Wexford and Kilkenny in Ireland.
Kilvent
This is an alternate spelling of Kilvant and is of Irish origin. It could be an advocate form or a spelling variation of Mac Giolla Mhantáin.
Kilmonton
This variant is of Irish origin and is thought to be derived from the surname Mac Giolla Mhantáin. It is believed to be an anglicisation of the spelling and is much rarer than the other variants.
McGillivans
This variant of Kilvant is an altered form of the original surname Mac Giolla Mhantáin. It is thought to be a Scottish spelling and an advocate form of the name. It is much rarer than the other variants.
McGillvray
This variant is of Irish origin and is thought to be an anglicisation of the original surname Mac Giolla Mhantáin. It is much rarer than the other variants.
McGilvary
This variant is of Irish origin and is thought to be an anglicisation and a spelling variant of Mac Giolla Mhantáin. It is much rarer than the other variants.
McGillivray
This is another variant of the surname Mac Giolla Mhantáin. It is of Irish origin and is an anglicisation of the original name. It is much rarer than the other variants.
McGilloway
This variant is of Irish origin and is thought to be an anglicisation and a spelling variant of Mac Giolla Mhantáin. It is much rarer than the other variants.
Famous people with the name Kilvant
- Dorothy Kilvant: American beauty pageant winner; Miss USA (1964)
- Jodie Kilvant: American singer, songwriter and composer
- Simon Kilvant: American Olympic athlete and triathlete
- Liam Kilvant: American actor, best known for his recurring role as Harland on the television series Reba
- Rachel Kilvant: British journalist and political commentator
- Patti Kilvant: American dancer and choreographer
- Carolyn Kilvant: Americal actor and singer; most widely known for the role of “Bambi” in the Broadway musical “Fosse”
- Thomas Kilvant: Canadian politician and civil rights activist; first African-Canadian to be elected to the Legislative Assembly of New Brunswick
- Jay Kilvant: American mixed martial artist and actor
- Geoffrey Kilvant: Australian professional surfer; current champion of the Central Coast Professional Surfing Association