Cavanagh is an Irish surname, a variant of Kavanagh. It originated as an anglicisation of the Irish Gaelic name Caomhánach, meaning "a student of Saint Caomhán" or "of the lineage of Caomhán". The name was first adopted by Domhnall Caomhánach, the eldest son of Diarmait Mac Murchada, the 12th-century King of Leinster. Etymology The root of the surname is the personal name Caomhán, derived from the Old Irish Cóemán, which combines the element cóem (meaning "dear, beloved, gentle") with a diminutive suffix. Several early Irish saints bore this name, contributing to its popularity in medieval Ireland. Notable Bearers The surname Cavanagh has been held by various notable individuals, including Tom Cavanagh, a Canadian actor known for his role in Ed, and John Cavanagh, a retired American football linebacker. Thomas M. Cavanagh served as the 167th Mayor of New York City from 2018 to 2022. In the wizarding world, it is shared by Michael Cavanagh, who portrayed Ron Weasley in the film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 as a body double for the younger actor. Spelling Variations As a common anglicisation of Caomhánach, Cavanagh has numerous spelling variants, including Kavanagh, Cavanaugh, Kavanaugh, Cavanah, and Kavenagh. These variations reflect different regional pronunciations and scribal conventions in historical record-keeping. Cultural Significance The name is closely tied to Irish history and the kings of Leinster. Through Domhnall Caomhánach, it is linked to the epic and lineage of the Mac Murchada dynasty, which played a significant role in medieval Irish politics. Meaning: descendant of Caomhán (dear, beloved) Origin: Irish Gaelic Type: Surname Usage regions: Ireland, Irish diaspora (especially USA, UK, Canada, Australia)