Greely

Topographic

Meaning

One from a grassy clearing or meadow, or descendant of someone named Greely.

Etymology

Derived from Old English elements 'gre' or 'gree' (grass, green) combined with 'ley' or 'lea' (clearing, meadow). The surname indicates topographic origin from a grassy open area.

About the Greely Surname

A topographic surname referring to a grassy clearing or meadow. The name has historical prominence in American exploration and journalism.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 3,000 bearers in the United States #2,235 most common surname
Rare Common

Found in England, Scotland, and North America.

Greely Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the Greely Surname