CLEEVE
Cleeve
Cleeve, a surname of British origin, is believed to have ancient roots in the West Country of England. The name is derived from the Old English word "clif," meaning cliff or hill, suggesting that it may have initially denoted someone who lived near a prominent cliff or hill. Over time, variations in spelling such as Cleave, Cleve, and Cleaves have emerged.
Historically, individuals bearing the surname Cleeve were mainly concentrated in regions such as Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall, reflecting its connection to the landscape of the South West of England. The presence of Cleeve as a toponymic surname is indicative of individuals who hailed from villages or settlements named Cleeve or Cleve across the British Isles.
The surname Cleeve has been passed down through generations, with families potentially tracing their ancestry back to a common ancestor associated with the name. The adoption of surnames became more prevalent in the British Isles from the medieval period onwards, often linked to a person's occupation, location, or a distinguishing characteristic.
Variants of the Cleeve surname have been borne by notable figures in British history, adding to its historical significance. From rural landscapes to urban settings, the legacy of the Cleeve surname continues to be preserved through family lines and documented records, affirming its enduring presence in British genealogy.
In contemporary times, individuals with the surname Cleeve can be found across the United Kingdom and beyond, contributing to the diverse tapestry of British surnames and family histories. Through genealogical research and historical records, the story of the Cleeve surname offers insights into the deep-rooted connections between individuals, their communities, and the landscapes of Britain.
There are approximately 603 people named Cleeve in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around nine in a million people in Britain are named Cleeve.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Anthony
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Martin
- Michael
- Nic
- Nicholas
- Peter
- Richard
- Simon
- Stephen
Female
- Carol
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Katherine
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Susan
- Victoria
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.