CLEEVES
Cleeves
Cleeves is a British surname that is of Anglo-Saxon origin. The surname originated as a locational name, derived from the Old English word "cleof" which means "valley". As a locational surname, it likely denoted someone who lived in or near a valley.
The first recorded instance of the surname Cleeves dates back to the early 13th century, in the county of Somerset in England. Over the centuries, the surname has spread to various parts of the United Kingdom and beyond.
Notable individuals bearing the surname Cleeves include Hugh Cleeves, an English poet known for his works in the 17th century, and Sarah Cleeves, a renowned British actress in the early 20th century.
The surname Cleeves may have several variations in spelling, including Cleve, Cleves, and Cleaves. It is a patronymic surname, meaning it could also have evolved from a personal name, such as Cleof or Cleofing, to denote the "son of Cleof" or "descendant of Cleof".
As with many British surnames, the name Cleeves may have undergone changes in spelling and pronunciation over time. Today, individuals bearing the surname Cleeves can be found across the United Kingdom and in various parts of the world, contributing to the diverse tapestry of British surnames.
There are approximately 155 people named Cleeves in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Cleeves.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Aaron
- Andrew
- Andy
- Christopher
- David
- Graham
- John
- Matthew
- Nick
- Robert
- Stephen
- Thomas
- Timothy
Female
- Ann
- Claire
- Elaine
- Elizabeth
- Julie
- Kerry
- Lisa
- Mary
- Ruth
- Sally
- Victoria