Summary

The surname Clay has English origins and is derived from the Old English word 'claēg', meaning 'clay'. It likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near clayey soil or worked with clay. Clay has been used for countless purposes throughout history, including pottery-making and as a building material. The surname Clay is associated with the qualities of strength and resilience.
There are
48844
Clays in the USA
Clay is the
708th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Clay

HenryClay

Henry Clay was an American statesman and orator who represented Kentucky in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. He played a major role in the development of the American System and was known as the 'Great Compromiser.'

CassiusClay

Cassius Clay, also known as Muhammad Ali, was an American professional boxer and one of the most significant and celebrated sports figures of the 20th century. He was known for his charismatic personality and his activism outside the ring.

LuciusD.

Lucius D. Clay was an American military leader and diplomat who played a key role in the post-World War II reconstruction of Germany as the military governor of the U.S. Zone of Occupation.

LauraClay

Laura Clay was an American suffragist and women's rights advocate. She played a significant role in the Kentucky suffrage movement and was the first woman to have her name placed in nomination for the presidency of a major political party.

AndrewClay

Andrew Clay, known professionally as Andrew Dice Clay, is an American stand-up comedian and actor known for his controversial and raunchy style. He gained popularity in the 1980s with his 'Dice Man' persona.

ClayAiken

Clay Aiken is an American singer, songwriter, and actor who gained fame as the runner-up on the second season of 'American Idol.' He has since released several successful albums and appeared in various television shows and Broadway productions.

MossimoGianulli

Mossimo Gianulli is an American fashion designer and entrepreneur who founded the popular clothing brand 'Mossimo.' He is married to actress Lori Loughlin, and the couple was involved in the 2019 college admissions bribery scandal.

ClaytonMoore

Clayton Moore was an American actor best known for his portrayal of the fictional cowboy character 'The Lone Ranger' in the television series of the same name. He became an icon of American Western culture.

ClayBennett

Clay Bennett is an American editorial cartoonist who has won numerous awards for his work. He is known for his sharp and thought-provoking political cartoons, often published in major newspapers across the country.

LucyClay

Lucy Clay is a British ceramics artist known for her innovative and intricate clay sculptures. Her work explores themes of nature, transformation, and the human condition.

Clay Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Clay' is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word 'clǣg,' which means 'clay' or 'earth.' It likely referred to someone who lived near or worked with clay or had clay-like physical characteristics.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Clay' is most commonly found in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. It is also found in smaller numbers in other parts of Europe and the English-speaking Caribbean.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Clay' include 'Clee,' 'Claye,' and 'Clai,' among others.
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Clay' has likely been carried by immigrants to various countries throughout history, especially during periods of English colonization and migration. Many individuals with the surname 'Clay' can trace their ancestry back to England.