Clarke
“descendant of the cleric — possibly Europe's oldest surname (916 AD)”
The sept's historic heartland, highlighted. People moved — a name can be found far from home.
Is Clarke an Irish name?
Clarke is a Gaelic name: it was formed in Irish, from an Irish ancestor, before English was spoken here. In Irish the name is Ó Cléirigh.
What does the surname Clarke mean?
Clarke (Irish: Ó Cléirigh) means “descendant of the cleric — possibly Europe's oldest surname (916 AD)”. Origin: Gaelic learned family.
Where in Ireland is the surname Clarke from?
The historic homeland of the Clarke name is Donegal, Cavan, Galway. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.
What is the Irish for Clarke?
Ó Cléirigh. Related spellings: Clark, O'Clery, Cleary.
Looking for the Clarke family crest? Read this first — arms belong to people, not surnames, and the honest version is more interesting. Tracing Clarke ancestors? The step-by-step guide.
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