Clare

Origin of the Name The surname Clare is of Old English origin, deriving from the medieval personal name "Clarus" which means "bright" or "clear". It was first recorded as a surname in England in the 12th century.

Distribution The surname Clare is widely distributed throughout the United Kingdom and can be found in various regions. It is particularly prevalent in the eastern counties of England, such as Suffolk, Essex, and Norfolk.

Historical Significance The Clare family played a significant role in English history, particularly during the medieval period. The most prominent branch of the family was the de Clare family, which held various titles and lands, including the Earldom of Gloucester. Richard de Clare, also known as Strongbow, was a key figure in the Norman invasion of Ireland in the 12th century.

Variants Over the centuries, the surname Clare has undergone various spelling variations, including Clair, Claire, and Clar. These variants reflect the evolution of the name and its use in different regions.

Famous Individuals The surname Clare has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history, including actors, musicians, and authors. Some well-known figures with the surname Clare include Peter Clare, an English actor, and Jamie Clare, a British singer-songwriter.

Modern Usage In contemporary British society, the surname Clare remains relatively common, with many individuals proud to bear this historic name. The name continues to be passed down through generations, preserving its legacy and connection to British history.

There are approximately 9,274 people named Clare in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,016th most common surname in Britain. Around 142 in a million people in Britain are named Clare.

Surname type: From given name or forename

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Alison
  • Amanda
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Janet
  • Julie
  • Margaret
  • Michelle
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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