
Irish Surname - Canavan
The Irish surname Canavan is an anglicised version of the Gaelic name Ó Ceanndubháin, which means "descendant of Ceanndubhán". The name Ceanndubhán is derived from the Gaelic words ceann, meaning "head" or "leader", and dubhán, meaning "little black one".
The Canavan family originated in the province of Connacht, particularly in County Mayo and County Roscommon.
The surname Canavan can also be found in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where many Irish immigrants settled.
Famous People with surname Canavan
- Peter Canavan, an All-Ireland-winning Gaelic footballer from County Tyrone
- Tommy Canavan, a former Gaelic footballer and father of Peter Canavan
- Aidan Canavan, an Irish footballer who played for Dundalk and Shamrock Rovers
Variations of the surname Canavan
The Canavan variation is the most common in Ireland, particularly in County Donegal and the surrounding areas. The Kavanagh variation is more common in other parts of Ireland, particularly in County Carlow and surrounding counties. The Kavanaugh variation is more common in the United States and Canada, where many Irish immigrants settled.
Canavan Coat of Arms
The coat of arms for the Canavan family features a red shield with three silver mullets (stars) and a silver chevron. The crest is a hand holding a branch of oak leaves and acorns.
Canavan Motto
"Sapienter et Fideliter", which means "Wisely and Faithfully"
Please Note
There is often limited information available on a specific coat of arms and motto for an Irish surname. Sometimes there are many variations, sometimes none, we have compiled a representative, but by no means exhaustive, selection. Please visit our Coat of Arms and Motto page for more information.
DNA And Your Irish Roots
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