Surname Clellan - Meaning and Origin

Clellan: What does the surname Clellan mean?

The surname Clellan is of Scottish origin and is considered a habitation name from the lands and barony of Clelland (also spelled Cleland) in the parish of Shotts, Lanarkshire, Scotland. The name itself is derived from the Gaelic "cleithe lann" which means "hill next to the river". This suggests that the original bearers of the name lived in or near such a location. As a surname, it would have been used to identify individuals coming from that specific region. Like many surnames, it is likely the spelling has altered over time and with migration, resulting in variations including Clelland, Cleland, and Clellan. It's worth mentioning that surnames meanings can often be speculative due to changes and adaptations over centuries, and the precise meaning might depend on the family's own ancestral history.

Clellan: Where does the name Clellan come from?

The surname Clellan is of Scottish origin, specifically from the region of Galloway in the southwestern part of the country. The name is derived from the Celtic personal name "Clelland", which means "deceitful" or "untrustworthy". Despite its slightly negative meaning, the name is carried by many families due to its strong historical ties and heritage. Today, the surname has variations such as Clelland, Cleland and Clellan and is found in countries where Scottish people have emigrated to, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It is not as common as other Scottish surnames, hence it is quite unique and distinct. The surname is notably associated with the Clellan's of that Ilk, a Scottish family who were once quite influential in the area of Lanarkshire during the Middle Ages.

Variations of the surname Clellan

The surname Clellan could potentially have a number of variants and alternate spellings based on linguistic region, dialect, phonetic translations and historical record keeping. For example, original surnames often were changed as families moved from one region or country to another.

Some potential variations and similar names might include Clan Clelland, Mclelland, Clellend, MacLellan, McLelland, MacLelland, McLellan and Cleland. It's important to note, though, that while these names may have similar spellings or pronunciations, they may not necessarily have the same origins.

The surname Clellan seems to be of Scottish origin. It is believed to have been derived from a place-name in the former county of Lanarkshire, now part of the council area of South Lanarkshire. The place-name and the surname likely refer to a "place of the cleric" or "clergyman".

Always keep in mind that surnames can be regional, occupational, personal characteristic or made after a noteworthy event, and their origins could be different even if they sound or are spelled similarly. It's recommended for a completely accurate account of a surname's history and origin to refer to genealogical research or a knowledgeable source.

Famous people with the name Clellan

• Ruth Clellan Thompson: American Member of the South Carolina House of Representatives
• William M. Clellan: an American soldier and Medal of Honor recipient
• John W. Clellan: American Civil War veteran
• James McDowell Clellan: former mayor of Jackson Mississippi
• David Clellan: British Member of Parliament
• Kate Clellan: American voice actress
• Lee Clellan: American actor and voice actor
• R.J. Clellan: American baseball player
• Sally Clellan: British novelist
• Frank Clellan: American writer and poet

Other surnames

Clelland