Find out how popular the first name Cleary has been for the last 1 years (from 2013 to 2013) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Cleary by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Cleary is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2013, there were 8 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Cleary.

The history of the first name Cleary

The name Cleary is derived from the Old Irish word "cliar," which means "bright" or "shining." This name has its origins in ancient Celtic culture, particularly among the Gaelic people who inhabited Ireland and parts of Scotland. The name's earliest recorded use dates back to the 5th century AD, when it was commonly used as a descriptive surname or byname to identify individuals with a bright or radiant appearance.

During the Middle Ages, the name Cleary gained popularity as a given name, particularly among Irish families. One of the earliest recorded individuals with this name was Cleary of Armagh, a renowned scholar and churchman who lived in the 8th century AD. He was known for his contributions to the preservation and study of ancient Irish literature and manuscripts.

In the 12th century, the name Cleary is mentioned in the Annals of Inisfallen, a historical chronicle that recorded notable events and individuals in Ireland. The annals mention a person named Cleary Ua Muireadhaigh, who was described as a skilled poet and scholar from County Clare.

Throughout the centuries, the name Cleary has been associated with several notable figures in Irish history and culture. One of the most famous individuals with this name was Cleary O'Clery, who lived from 1590 to 1643. He was a renowned Irish chronicler and historian who played a crucial role in preserving and compiling many of Ireland's ancient manuscripts and historical records.

Another notable figure was Cleary O'Quinn, a 17th-century Irish poet and songwriter from County Clare. His compositions, which celebrated Irish culture and traditions, were widely popular during his lifetime and were passed down through generations of Irish folk musicians.

In the 19th century, Cleary Byrne (1806-1879) was a prominent Irish politician and journalist who advocated for Irish independence and the rights of the Irish people. He founded several influential newspapers and played a significant role in the Irish nationalist movement.

More recently, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, a prominent international law firm, was founded in 1920 by a group of lawyers, including one named Cleary. While the firm's name is not directly related to the given name Cleary, it is worth mentioning as an example of the name's enduring presence in various contexts.

Overall, the name Cleary has a rich and enduring history, deeply rooted in the ancient Celtic culture of Ireland. Its association with scholars, poets, and historical figures has contributed to its lasting cultural significance and enduring popularity as a given name.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Cleary was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Cleary, please contact us.

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