Discover people named Nan Rainey

The last name Rainey has its origins primarily in England and Ireland, deriving from the Old French personal name "Renaud," which means "ruler's advisor" or "wise ruler." This name was brought to England by the Normans after the Conquest of 1066 and evolved into various forms, including Rainey. The surname is often associated with individuals who held positions of authority or were involved in governance, reflecting the meaning of wisdom and leadership. Variations of the surname can be found in different regions, such as "Raine" or "Rainey" in England, and "O’Raghailligh" in Ireland, which may have similar roots but differ in spelling and pronunciation. The name has also been recorded in various historical documents, indicating its presence in both English and Irish genealogies. Overall, Rainey encapsulates a rich heritage tied to leadership and counsel, with its variations reflecting the diverse linguistic and cultural influences across regions.