Origin and Meaning of Henessey

Meaning & Origin

Descendant of Aonghus, a clever leader

Origin: Irish - Henessey is an anglicized form of the Irish surname Ó hAonghusa, meaning 'descendant of Aonghus'. Aonghus itself is derived from the Old Irish name Aonghus, which combines 'aon' (one) and 'ghus' (force) to mean 'one strength' or 'strong is his strength'.

Interesting Facts

  • Henessey is less common as a first name compared to other names derived from Aonghus, and is more frequently recognized as a surname.
  • As a name with Irish origins, Henessey resonates strongly within Irish communities and among individuals with Irish ancestry.
  • Notable bearers of the surname Henessey include various individuals from the arts, literature, and Irish history, playing significant roles in their respective fields.
  • The name Henessey has not seen widespread popularity in recent decades as a first name but retains some recognition due to its connection to the well-known Irish whiskey brand, Hennessy.
  • Variations of the name Henessey include Hennessy, Heneghan, and the more common anglicized versions such as Henley or Henson.