CLEARY

Meaning

Derived from the Irish 'Ó Cléirigh,' meaning descendant of Cleirigh, a name possibly related to clergy or learned persons.

Etymology

The surname comes from the Irish patronymic 'Ó Cléirigh,' where 'Ó' means 'descendant of' and 'Cléirigh' may derive from 'cleirigh' (clerk, scholar). The name was Anglicized from its original Irish form during the medieval period.

About the CLEARY Surname

An Irish patronymic surname with possible connections to clerical or scholarly professions. The name has a strong presence in Irish-American communities.

Distribution

Primarily found in Ireland and Irish diaspora communities, particularly in the United States.

Notable Bearers

Robert Cleary, Desmond Cleary

People with the CLEARY Surname