Surname McCleran - Meaning and Origin

McCleran: What does the surname McCleran mean?

The last name McCleran is of Irish origin and is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name Mac Cléirchín, which contains the elements 'mac' meaning 'son of' and 'cléirchín', a diminutive form of 'cléireach’, which means 'clerk' or 'cleric'. Thus, McCleran can be interpreted as 'son of the little cleric' or 'son of the little scholar'. The name likely originated as a nickname, indicating that the original bearer was either a clerk or scholar or possibly the son of one. The name indicates the family's historical occupation, linking them with religious or scholarly work. Irish surnames often retain these historical connections and are a way of preserving and recording the family's lineage and past. Like many other Irish names, the exact spelling can vary widely, with McCleran also appearing as McClaran, McClaren, and other variations.

McCleran: Where does the name McCleran come from?

The surname McCleran is of Irish Gaelic origin. It is derived from the Gaelic "Mac Cléirigh" which means "son of the cleric". The McCleran surname might have originated within clerical families where a clergyman in the Church usually transferred it to his offspring. However, Non-Irish forms include McLeary, Cleary, and others.

Initially, McCleran families held a family seat in Mayo near Sligo, in the west of the Republic of Ireland and many members of the family can still be found there to this day. Like many Irish family names, their numbers were dramatically reduced during the 19th century due to the Great Famine and massive emigration, so descendants will now be found all over the world. Today, the surname McCleran is more common in the United States and northern Europe, although smaller communities exist in other parts of the globe.

Variations of the surname McCleran

The surname McCleran has various alternate spellings and variants, which may have been introduced over time due to different pronunciations, dialects, or transliteration from Gaelic to English. Some of these variants and alternate spellings include McClaran, McClaron, McCleron, and McLeran.

Names of the same origin often share common root words or elements. The surname McCleran is of Scottish origin, stemming from the Gaelic MacGilleFhaolain (son of the servant of St Fillan). Thus, surnames that may share the same origin include McFillan, McGilfillan, and MacLaren.

Although MacLaren is one of the more common variations, it is also often spelled as McLaren or McLarin. There are many other variations of the name throughout Scotland, Ireland, and other regions where Gaelic languages are or were spoken.

These names have spread worldwide, particularly to countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand with high levels of immigration from the British Isles. Over time, and due to incorrect transcription or deliberate changes, even more variations of these names may exist. However, it is important to remember that the presence of a similar surname does not automatically imply a familial connection.

Famous people with the name McCleran

• Jeff McLeran: Jeff is a jazz singer, songwriter, and producer. He has performed on a variety of albums and soundtracks, including the Grammy-winning soundtrack of "Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?" and "The Postman".
• Landon McLeran: Landon is an actor, best known for his roles in the television shows such as "Stargate SG-1," "The West Wing," and "Smallville."
• Jeremy McLeran: Jeremy McLeran is a professional wrestler, most notably competing under the ring name "The Progressive Christian."
• Kathy McCleran: Kathy is a former World Figure Skating Champion, winning three World Championships in the late seventies and early eighties.
• Pat McCleran: Pat is a former NFL football player who spent most of his career with the Dallas Cowboys.
• Gene McCleran: Gene is a former professional baseball player, spending a majority of his career with the Chicago White Sox.
• Doug McCleran: Doug is a former NBA basketball player, spending most of his career with the Golden State Warriors.
• Karen McCleran: Karen is an artist, specializing in painting and sculpture. Her works have been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums throughout the United States.
• Sheryl McCleran: Sheryl is a professional photographer, known for her portraits and landscapes. Her work has been featured in various publications, including National Geographic and Life Magazine.
• Ray McCleran: Ray is a former MLB baseball player, spending most of his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Other surnames

McClerenMcClergMcClerhanMcClerinMcClernMcClernandMcCleronMcClerrenMcClerrinMcClerronMcClery