Summary

The surname Downey is of Irish and English origin. It is derived from the Gaelic word "Dúnadh", which means "fortress" or "stronghold". The name likely originated as a topographic or locational surname, indicating that the original bearer lived near a fort or stronghold. Over time, the surname spread to various parts of Ireland and England.
There are
26627
Downeys in the USA
Downey is the
1320th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Downey

RobertDowney

Robert Downey Jr. is an American actor and producer who gained widespread recognition for his role as Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

MortonDowney

Morton Downey Jr. was an American television talk show host and singer, known for his controversial style and confrontational interviews.

CliftonDowney

Clifton Downey was an American football player who played as a lineman for the Green Bay Packers in the 1920s.

ThomasDowney

Thomas Downey is an American politician and lawyer who served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from New York.

DonnieDowney

Donnie Downey is a former American professional basketball player who played for several teams in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

PeterDowney

Peter Downey is an Australian actor known for his roles in films such as 'The Bank' and 'Bad Eggs.'

AndrewDowney

Andrew Downey was an Irish poet and playwright, known for his contributions to Irish literature in the early 20th century.

EmilyDowney

Emily Downey is a British journalist and television presenter, best known for her work on the BBC News Channel and BBC World News.

GeorgeDowney

George Downey was an English cricketer who played as a wicket-keeper for the Derbyshire County Cricket Club in the late 19th century.

SarahDowney

Sarah Downey is a Canadian actress known for her role as Stacy in the television series 'Hannibal.'

Downey Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Downey' is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name 'Donnchadh,' meaning 'brown warrior.' It is commonly found in Ireland and among Irish diaspora populations.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Downey' has a significant presence in Ireland, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, reflecting the historical migration patterns of the Irish diaspora.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Downey' include 'Dowling' and 'Doheny,' which are also derived from the Gaelic name 'Donnchadh.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Downey' has been carried by Irish immigrants who settled in various countries, particularly during periods of Irish emigration in the 19th and early 20th centuries.