Kane surname: meaning and origin

Kane means descendant of Cathán, from cath, meaning battle. It is a native Gaelic Irish family from Derry and Antrim.

Irish formÓ Catháin
Meaningdescendant of Cathán, from cath, meaning battle
Home regionDerry and Antrim (Ulster)
OriginGaelic
VariantsKeane, O'Kane, Cain

History of the Kane name

The O'Kanes were lords of Keenaght in County Derry and are also called Cahan or Keane in various spellings.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the surname Kane mean?

Kane (Irish: Ó Catháin) means descendant of Cathán, from cath, meaning battle.

What is the Irish spelling of Kane?

The Irish-language form of Kane is Ó Catháin.

Where is the surname Kane from?

Kane is a native Gaelic Irish family, associated with Derry and Antrim in Ulster.

What are other spellings of Kane?

Related spellings and forms include Keane, O'Kane, Cain.

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