Irish Surname - Killeen
Origin of the Surname Killeen
The surname Killeen has its origins deeply embedded in Irish history, deriving from the Gaelic Ó Cillín, which means 'descendant of the little church'. This name is thought to reflect an ancestral vocation or a geographical association with a church in early medieval Ireland. Predominantly found in the western part of Ireland, especially in counties Galway and Mayo, the Killeen surname is a testament to Ireland’s rich ecclesiastical heritage and its impact on surnames.
Variations of the Surname Killeen
- Killeen: The standard spelling and the most widely recognised form of the surname.
- Killean: A less common variation, possibly emerging from regional pronunciation differences or transcription errors in historical records.
- O’Killeen: Reflecting the traditional Gaelic prefix meaning 'descendant of', this variation is less commonly used today but signifies a direct lineage.
Coat of Arms and Motto for Killeen
The Killeen family coat of arms, where documented, bears symbols that represent the family’s enduring legacy and its historical association with the church. Common elements include religious motifs that signify faith and service. The family motto, when available, echoes themes of loyalty, perseverance, and commitment to community.
The Killeen surname, along with its variations, embodies a rich narrative of Irish history, from ancient ecclesiastical connections to contributions in various fields by its bearers today. This page aims to celebrate the enduring spirit and cultural legacy of the Killeen name and its place within the tapestry of Irish heritage.
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
- DNA and your Irish Heritage
- DNA, Discovery and Functions
- Types of DNA tests
- DNA testing companies
- Y-chromosome and Father's Ancestral Line
- Mitochondrial DNA and Mother's Ancestral Line
- DNA and Ethnicity
Interesting Irish Connections
