US Popularity Rank: 9865

Origin: Irish

Meaning: Scholar; Educated

From the land of saints and scholars comes the name Cleary. An ancient Irish name meaning “scholar” and “educated,” Cleary shares its history with the High Kings of Ireland. Most commonly used as a surname, it is an anglicized version of Ó Cléirigh, the oldest recorded surname in Europe. The Clearys ruled the Kingdom of Connacht for nearly two millennia, firmly immortalizing the name. Although a name that has stood the test of time, Cleary has a bright and airy feel to it, making it the perfect name for your little breath of fresh air.