Starkey is a proper noun that refers to a surname of English and Irish origin. It is derived from the Old English pre-7th century word "stearc" or the Old Gaelic name "Mac an tSaoir." The name is primarily found in the United Kingdom and Ireland, and it may have different variations such as Starkie or Starke.
As a surname, Starkey typically signifies a person's ancestral connection to someone named Starkey in their family lineage. The name might have originally been an occupational surname, denoting someone who was involved in the metalworking trade, specifically a blacksmith or a skilled worker of iron and steel. These professions were highly regarded throughout history due to the necessity of metalworking skills for the production of various tools and weapons.
Over time, individuals with the Starkey surname might have migrated to different regions or adopted different occupations, resulting in a diverse range of meanings and associations with the name. Some individuals with the surname may have become involved in other trades or professions or taken on different roles within their communities.
Today, Starkey is also used as a given name for both males and females, although it is less common. In this context, the name might convey a sense of strength, resilience, and determination, reflecting the historical association with metalworking and the enduring legacy of those who bore the surname.
