Surname Clevenger - Meaning and Origin
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Tracing Back Clevenger Roots: A Personal DNA Journey with iGENEA DNA Test
The iGENEA DNA test I took recently opened up new doors of understanding about my ancestral lineage, the Clevenger surname. The scientific findings linked the surname to ancient Celtic tribes, suggested migration patterns, and provided insight into the cultural sphere where the Clevengers might have been influential. It discovered the lines that connect the Clevengers of today to their mighty Celtic ancestors.
H. Clevenger
read moreClevenger: What does the surname Clevenger mean?
Clevenger is an English surname that is believed to be derived from a geographical locality. It is likely from "Cleyvanger," a term found in the Middle English period, and refers to "A dweller at the clayey field," implying the person or their ancestors were occupants or workers of terrains distinguished by heavy, hard, and sticky soils, possibly involved in pottery, brick-making, or similar professions. This surname might also be linked to the old term, 'Clench,' denoting a wooded bank or hillside used for habitation purposes. The variations of the name include Cleavenger, Clevinger, Clivinger, and others. Like many surnames historically taken from places or professions, specific individuals with the name Clevenger may not necessarily have any personal connections to such locations or professions anymore.
Order DNA origin analysisClevenger: Where does the name Clevenger come from?
The surname Clevenger originates from England. It's a habitational name that likely derives from a place called Clivinger in Lancashire or Cliviger in West Yorkshire. These places were originally named in Old English as 'Clifingas', meaning 'the dwellers by the steep slope'.
The use of surnames became necessary when governments introduced personal taxation, known as poll tax in England. Surnames all over the country began to develop, with unique and shocking spelling varieties of the original one.
In terms of its geographical distribution today, Clevenger is most prevalent in the United States, according to the Forebears surname database. In terms of state-by-state breakdown, it is most common in Kentucky, followed closely by Indiana, Virginia, and Tennessee. Outside of the US, it is most frequently found in Australia, England, and Canada. However, in terms of sheer numbers, the USA remains the country with most people carrying the Clevenger surname. This can be attributed to historical migration patterns, particularly during the era of British colonial expansion.
Variations of the surname Clevenger
The surname Clevenger is believed to have English origins, specifically from the old English word 'Clyf,' referring to steep hills or cliffs, combined with 'ingas,' the term for people of a specific place. It might have been used to refer to people living near cliffs or steep hills.
There are several spelling variants and forms of the surname that have been documented, driven by factors such as regional accents, different languages, and even clerical errors. These include Clevinger, Cleavenger, Clavenger, and Clevingar among others.
In terms of related surnames, it may be linked to any names that share the 'clev' or 'inger' components, though specific origins might differ. For instance, surnames like Cleaver, Cleving, Cleavinger, and Clinger could be somewhat related.
However, tracing surname lines accurately can be a complex task due to the potential variations and transmutations over generations and geographical shifts. As such, the exact range of related surnames can be difficult to confidently determine.
To explore comprehensive origins and variations, further genealogical research is advisable, for instance, through ancestral databases, family records, and historical documents, that could offer additional insights and specificities.
Famous people with the name Clevenger
- Steve Clevenger: He is a former professional American baseball catcher.
- Francis John Clevenger: Known as the "American Rodin," Francis Clevenger was a renowned American artisan and sculptor.
- Paul Clevenger: He was an American professional football player.
- Zach Clevenger: He is recognized for his work in sound techniques and has conducted projects for films such as "Horrible Bosses."
- Ian Clevenger: He is a renowned lighting designer known for his work with musical artists and events.
- Harold R. Clevenger: He was a U.S. politician who served as an alternate delegate to Republican National Convention from California in 1956.
- Clancy Clevenger: He was an American football player who played with the Green Bay Packers during the 1926 NFL season.
- Jeremy Clevenger: He is a known actor in the film industry, notable for his roles in films such as "Dogville." (Note: The above-mentioned individuals have gained notable visibility within their respective professions however, not all of them could be categorized as 'famous' or celebrities.)