Summary

The surname CLEARY has an Irish origin and belongs to the category of anglicized Gaelic surnames. It is derived from the Gaelic name 'O'Cléirigh', meaning 'descendant of Cléirigh'. The name Cléirigh is derived from the word 'cléireach', which means 'clergyman' or 'scribe'. The Cleary family history dates back to ancient times in Ireland, with several notable individuals bearing this surname throughout history.
There are
15980
Clearys in the USA
Cleary is the
2280th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Cleary

JimCleary

Jim Cleary is a fictional character from the TV show 'The Office', portrayed by actor Warren Lieberstein.

JoanCleary

Joan Cleary was an American screenwriter and playwright, known for her work on movies like 'Five Easy Pieces' and 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore'.

WilliamCleary

William Cleary is a Canadian politician who served as the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador from 1989 to 1996.

T.J.Cleary

T.J. Cleary is an American pianist and composer, known for his jazz and contemporary classical music compositions.

KathleenCleary

Kathleen Cleary is a character from the movie 'Wedding Crashers', portrayed by actress Isla Fisher.

JamesCleary

James Cleary was an Irish politician and trade union leader, known for his advocacy for workers' rights and his role in the Irish trade union movement.

DavidCleary

David Cleary is an Australian environmentalist and author, recognized for his work in environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture.

MaryCleary

Mary Cleary was an American actress, best known for her roles in classic movies like 'Gone with the Wind' and 'The Wizard of Oz'.

TimCleary

Tim Cleary is a British journalist and author, known for his investigative reporting and publications on political and social issues.

JenniferCleary

Jennifer Cleary is an American artist and illustrator, recognized for her vibrant and whimsical illustrations in children's books.

Cleary Genealogy

OriginsThe surname Cleary is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name 'Ó Cléirigh', meaning 'descendant of Cléirigh'. The name Cléirigh is derived from the Gaelic word 'cléireach', which means 'clerk' or 'scribe'. The Cleary family is associated with the province of Connacht in Ireland.
Geographic DistributionThe name Cleary is most commonly found in Ireland, especially in the Connacht region. It is also found in other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, due to Irish migration.
VariationsVariations of the name Cleary include O'Clery, O'Clary, and McCleary.
Migration and ImmigrationIrish immigrants with the name Cleary have migrated to various countries, particularly during periods of Irish emigration, such as the Great Famine in the mid-19th century. They have settled in countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia.