CLARY

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Clary

Clary is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English word "claeg" meaning clay or earth. It is believed to have originated as a locational surname for someone who lived near clay pits or whose profession involved working with clay.

The surname Clary has been documented in England since medieval times, with early records dating back to the 13th century. The name has seen various spellings over the centuries, including Cleare, Clere, and Clarey.

Notable individuals with the surname Clary include the British comedian and actor Julian Clary, known for his flamboyant persona and quick wit. Another famous figure is American soprano and opera singer Sonja Gustafson Clary.

The Clary surname has spread beyond the British Isles, with examples found in the United States, Canada, and Australia among other countries.

Today, individuals bearing the surname Clary can be found engaged in diverse professions and activities, contributing to the rich tapestry of British and global society.

There are approximately 226 people named Clary in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Clary.

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

Alan
Andrew
Anthony
Daniel
David
James
Jamie
John
Mark
Michael
Paul
Peter
Robert
Thomas

Female

Alice
Ann
Barbara
Heather
Kathleen
Lara
Lesley
Margaret
Philippa
Phillipa
Tamara
Vanessa
Victoria
Winifred

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.