The original Gaelic form of Kearnan was Mac Thighearnain, which is derived from the word "tighearna," which means "lord."
The surname Kearnan was first found in County Cavan, where they held a family seat from ancient times.
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Kearnan research. Another 53 words (4 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Kearnan History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Just like the English language, the Gaelic language of Ireland was not standardized in the Middle Ages. Therefore, one's name was often recorded under several different spellings during the life of its bearer. Spelling variations revealed in the search for the origins of the Kearnan family name include Kiernan, MacKiernan, Tiernan, McKernan, McKernon, McKernin, McKernen and many more.
More information is included under the topic Early Kearnan Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.