Summary

The surname Dempsey is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name 'Ó Díomasaigh', meaning 'proud or haughty one'. It is commonly believed to have originated in County Offaly in Ireland. Dempsey is a well-known surname in Irish history and is associated with bravery and strength.
There are
26863
Dempseys in the USA
Dempsey is the
1308th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Dempsey

JackDempsey

Born as William Harrison Dempsey, Jack Dempsey was an American professional boxer who competed from 1914 to 1927. He held the world heavyweight title from 1919 to 1926 and is regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time.

PatrickDempsey

Patrick Dempsey is an American actor and racing driver. He is best known for his role as Dr. Derek Shepherd on the television series Grey's Anatomy. Dempsey has also appeared in films such as Can't Buy Me Love and Enchanted.

LukeDempsey

Luke Dempsey is an Irish racehorse trainer based in County Kildare, Ireland. He has trained several successful horses and has had a successful career in the horse racing industry.

JohnDempsey

John Dempsey was an American politician who served as the 81st Governor of Connecticut from 1961 to 1971. He was known for his progressive policies and was a prominent figure in the Democratic Party.

ThomasM.

Thomas M. Dempsey is a former American football player who played in the National Football League (NFL). He played as a linebacker for the Detroit Lions and the Philadelphia Eagles during his career.

KathleenDempsey

Kathleen Dempsey is an American actress and comedian known for her work in improv comedy. She has appeared on television shows such as Saturday Night Live and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

MartyDempsey

Martin E. Dempsey is a retired United States Army general who served as the 18th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 2011 to 2015. He is a decorated military officer and has held various leadership positions throughout his career.

BrianDempsey

Brian Dempsey is an Irish politician who has served as a member of the Irish Parliament and as the Minister for Education and Skills. He has been involved in various political and educational initiatives in Ireland.

LauraDempsey

Laura Dempsey is an Australian actress known for her roles in television shows such as Neighbours and Home and Away. She has also appeared in films and stage productions.

MichaelW.

Michael W. Dempsey is a retired United States Army general who served as the Acting Director of National Intelligence from 2016 to 2017. He has had a distinguished military career and has been recognized for his leadership and expertise in national security issues.

Dempsey Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Dempsey' is of Irish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic surname Mac Duinnshléibhe, meaning 'son of Dun Slope.' The name is commonly found in County Mayo and County Sligo in Ireland.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Dempsey' is primarily found in Ireland, especially in County Mayo and County Sligo. It can also be found in other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, due to Irish immigration.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Dempsey' include 'Dempster' and 'Demsby.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Dempsey' has been carried by Irish immigrants to various countries, especially during periods of mass migration from Ireland, such as the Great Famine in the mid-19th century.