Burke surname: meaning and origin
Burke means of the fortress or town (from the Norman de Burgh). It is a Norman family that came to Ireland after 1169 from Mayo and Galway.
| Irish form | de Búrca |
|---|---|
| Meaning | of the fortress or town (from the Norman de Burgh) |
| Home region | Mayo and Galway (Connacht) |
| Origin | Norman |
| Variants | de Burgh, Bourke, Burk |
History of the Burke name
The Burkes descend from William de Burgh, an Anglo-Norman who came to Ireland in the late twelfth century. They became one of the most powerful families in Connacht.
More surnames from Connacht
- ConnollyÓ Conghaile · descendant of Conghal
- O'ConnorÓ Conchobhair · descendant of Conchobhar
- EganMac Aodhagáin · son of Aodhagán
- FlanaganÓ Flannagáin · descendant of Flannagán
- HigginsÓ hUiginn · descendant of Uiginn
- JoyceSeoighe · from a Breton personal name
Frequently asked questions
What does the surname Burke mean?
Burke (Irish: de Búrca) means of the fortress or town (from the Norman de Burgh).
What is the Irish spelling of Burke?
The Irish-language form of Burke is de Búrca.
Where is the surname Burke from?
Burke is a Norman family that came to Ireland after 1169, associated with Mayo and Galway in Connacht.
What are other spellings of Burke?
Related spellings and forms include de Burgh, Bourke, Burk.