Surname Kegley - Meaning and Origin

Kegley: What does the surname Kegley mean?

The surname Kegley is of English and German origin, derived from several European cultures. The name folllows the pattern of naming found in many cultures which combines a diminutive form of an old personal name such as "Kegg" with the addition of the suffix "-ley". It is found mainly in parts of England, Germany, and the US and most likely originated in counties near the border of the two countries.

The meaning of Kegley is not certain, but some suggest that the name is derived from a combination of the German words “keg”, which refers to a small vessel used for storing liquids, and “ley”, which means “inhabitant of” or “descendant of.” This would imply that someone of the Kegley family may have originally been a brewer, or some other profession related to the production of ale.

This surname has a long pedigree and was likely first seen in England sometime in the 1200s. Although there is no traceable origin story, it is believed that the Kegleys were originally of Norman-English descent. From there, the family likely moved across Europe, eventually settling in countries such as Germany and the US.

The Kegley surname has come to represent a proud and determined people who have been making their mark on the world for over 800 years. These are people who have been consistently adaptable, and have contributed in many sectors of society, from the military and government to industry and academia.

Kegley: Where does the name Kegley come from?

The last name Kegley is most commonly found across the United States. There is a large concentration of believers in the Western and Eastern states, especially in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia.

In the western states, Kegleys are scattered from California all the way up through Washington. The highest concentrations in the West are found in Wyoming, Utah, and Arizona.

Kegleys have contributed to the United States in various professions. Kegleys have served in the Elite United States Special Forces, received special honors for their bravery and valor, and gained medals of honor. In addition, many Kegleys have become doctors, lawyers, and other professionals.

The Kegley family extends thousands of miles around the world and can be found in various countries. Kegley genealogy and stories can even be found in books, which helps to document the family’s long and rich history. With such an active community, it is no surprise that the Kegley name has lasted for so many years and continues to live on today.

Variations of the surname Kegley

The surname Kegley is of English or German origin and is derived from the personal name "Cœgils" which is believed to be a combination of the Old English words ‘cœg’ meaning 'bold, keen' and 'hild’ meaning 'hostage, pledge, combat'.

Variants of Kegley include Kegle, Kegel, Kegla, Kegley, Keglley, Kegli, Kegligh, Kegly, Keglee, Keegle, Keegla, Keigley, Keigli, Kegelin, and Kestle.

Similarly, other spellings and surnames of the same origin include Kegeler, Kegeley, Keigeley, Keglauer, Keglow, Cegley, Keygler, Keglar, Keygley, Kaigler, Kigley, Keagler, Keglor, and Cagley.

Among the German variants, Kegler is the most common version, while Keigle, Keagle, Kagle, Kaigle and Kaegle are considered diminutives, or nicknames, of Kegler.

Additionally, all of the variants and spellings of the Kegley surname can be found in various combinations with other surnames, like Kegley-Sparks, Kegley-Todd, Kegley-Mueller, Kegeley-Gibson, and Kestle-Kegley.

Overall, the Kegley surname has been around for generations and its various spellings, variants, and combined surnames reflect its wide distribution across the English and German-speaking world.

Famous people with the name Kegley

• David Kegley: American novelist
• Carol Kegley: American television director and producer
• Bruce Kegley: Award-winning American cinematographer
• Larry Kegley: American high school coach, basketball official, and college basketball player
• Kenny Kegley: American bass guitarist, songwriter, and record producer
• Steve Kegley: Former NFL tight end
• Layne Kegley: Retired SW Florida golf instructor
• Jeff Kegley: Professional Football Player and assistant coach
• Bill Kegley: Former American professional judoka and wrestling coach
• Cris Kegley: American country music singer-songwriter

Other surnames

Kegler