Surname Clowe - Meaning and Origin
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Clowe: What does the surname Clowe mean?
The surname Clowe is of English origin and is considered a variant of the surname "Clough". It may have been a topographic name for someone who lived near a steep hill or a ravine. The term "clough" in old English and middle English refers to a steep-sided or rocky ravine, typically one that is wooded and situated alongside a river. Over time, people who lived near such geographical features were identified with it and the term evolved into a surname. Like many surnames, it would have started as a means to differentiate individuals with the same first name in the same community. Notable people with the surname Clowe include Canadian professional ice-hockey player Ryane Clowe. It's important to note that the origins and meanings of surnames can vary significantly and this explanation represents one interpretation of the surname Clowe.
Order DNA origin analysisClowe: Where does the name Clowe come from?
The surname Clowe primarily originates from England. It is believed to have possibly derived from the Old English given name 'Clu' or 'Cleow,' meaning lump or hill. It could have been a topographical name for someone who lived near a noticeable hill or mound. It might also stem from the Middle English term 'Clowe,' meaning a nail or sprout and could imply a metonymic occupation of a nail-smith or a close relation to a claw or a tool that resembles a claw.
Today, the surname Clowe is uncommon. According to Forebears website, it is most prevalent in the United States, and relatively higher in number in England. In England, it's often found in regions such as Surrey and Essex. However, it still remains a rare family name globally. Please be advised to conduct personal genealogical research or professional ancestry tracing for the most accurate results.
Variations of the surname Clowe
The surname Clowe could have several variants and alternate spellings. Some of the possibilities might include Cloe, Clo, Clow, and Clough. Additionally, this surname might be a derivative of the name Mcclow, which itself could be a variant of McClure or McClowes.
In terms of surnames of the same origin, Clowe might be related to other names that have evolved from the ancient places where people lived near a hill or slope. This includes the names derived from the Old English word "Clough" or Scottish and Northern Irish word "Clogh" meaning 'ravine' or 'steep side of a hill'. These names could include Cluff, Clifton, Cliff, Clogg, and Clugston among others.
The distribution and variant spellings of a surname can be influenced by many factors, including regional dialects, literacy rates (which affected how names were recorded), and emigration patterns. Some variants may be more common in specific regions due to these factors. It is also worth noting that the use of different spellings for the same surname was very common in historical records due to a lack of standardized spelling rules. As such, many families with the Clowe surname might also find their ancestors under different spellings of the name.
Famous people with the name Clowe
- Ryane Clowe: A Canadian professional ice hockey coach and former player. Clowe played in the National Hockey League (NHL) with the San Jose Sharks, New York Rangers, and New Jersey Devils. Currently, he is the head coach of the Newfoundland Growlers in the ECHL.
- Wes Clowe: An influential figure in Newfoundland and Labrador sports. Clowe is the father of Ryane Clowe and he played a significant role in Newfoundland and Labrador's hockey world.
- Jim Clowe: A football player who played in the Canadian Football League (CFL) for the Edmonton Eskimos.
- Mark Clowe: An actor, known for his work in films like "The Limb Salesman" (2004) and "Wake Up. Run. Die. Repeat." (2017). These individuals are the most prominent figures with the surname 'Clowe.' They are recognized in their respective fields, namely sport and acting.