All about the name

Keefe

Male

« Keefe is an uncommon given name of Irish origin, derived from the surname Ó Caoidhe meaning "descendant of Caoidhe," which signifies "beautiful." It evolved from families who anglicized their names and has been used as a given name in Irish families for generations, associated with Celtic culture. »

#6475 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Keefe is a unique and distinctive given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname "Ó Caoidhe", which means "descendant of Caoidhe". The name Caoidhe itself comes from an old Irish word that signifies "comely" or "beautiful". The surname Ó Caoidhe was originally borne by a sept of the Ui Fiachrach, a historic Highland clan in County Mayo, Ireland. Over time, some families anglicized their names to Keefe, and it is from these families that the given name Keefe likely evolved. While not extensively documented like many other names, Keefe has been used as a given name in Irish families for generations. It has maintained its unique character and has become associated with the Celtic culture and heritage of Ireland. As a given name, Keefe is often chosen for its distinctive sound and its connection to Irish history and culture. It has also gained popularity in recent years due to its association with the successful fantasy novel series "The Iron King" by Julie Kagawa, in which a character named Keegan, often referred to as Keefe, plays a significant role. Overall, Keefe is a name that carries a sense of Irish heritage and uniqueness, making it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Keefe since 1880

Total births
658
Total since 1880
Peak year
1963
33 births
in 2012
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years