Neely

Neely is a distinguished surname of British origin, with roots that can be traced back to Scotland and Northern Ireland. The name is believed to be derived from the Gaelic "Mac an Fhailghigh," meaning "son of the stranger." Over the years, the spelling and pronunciation of the surname have evolved, giving rise to variations such as Neeley and MacNeely.

Origin and Distribution

The Neely surname is predominantly found in Scotland and Northern Ireland, where it is most commonly associated with the counties of Antrim and Down. The name has also spread to other parts of the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia, among other countries.

Notable Individuals

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the Neely surname, making significant contributions in various fields. These include:

  • Sheena Neely (b. 1980): A prominent Scottish artist known for her landscape paintings inspired by the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
  • Samuel Neely (1914–2000): A renowned Northern Irish poet and playwright whose work captured the essence of rural life in Ulster.
  • Charlotte MacNeely (b. 1975): A respected British historian specialising in medieval British history, particularly the reign of King Edward III.

Legacy

The Neely surname carries with it a sense of pride and heritage for those who bear it. With a rich history and a diverse legacy of achievements, individuals with the Neely surname continue to make their mark in various fields, contributing to the cultural tapestry of the United Kingdom and beyond.

There are approximately 672 people named Neely in the UK. That makes it roughly the 9,992nd most common surname in Britain. Around ten in a million people in Britain are named Neely.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Ireland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Kenneth
  • Matthew
  • Paul
  • Robert
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Anna-liese
  • Carol
  • Catherine
  • Deborah
  • Elizabeth
  • Fiona
  • Jane
  • Jennifer
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Melanie
  • Prue
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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