From Mac Cárthaigh, ‘loving’ — kings of Desmond, and Munster's most powerful dynasty after Brian Boru's own line.
The Mccarthy certificate.
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Gaelic Origin · Root name Cárthach, ‘loving’
McCarthy descends from Cárthach, meaning ‘loving’ or ‘affectionate’. After the O'Briens' power waned, the Mac Cárthaigh rose to become kings of Desmond, ruling much of Cork and Kerry from Blarney and Muckross for centuries — a gentle meaning for a family that held one of Gaelic Ireland's largest kingdoms.
A gentle meaning for a family that held one of Gaelic Ireland's largest kingdoms — proof that strength and softness were never opposites here.
Irish form: Mac Cárthaigh
