Cleary Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Cleary
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name CLEARY. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Cleary
Gender
Male
Origin
Gaelic
Lucky Number
1
Meaning of the Name
Cleary is a male name of Gaelic origin meaning 'descendant of the scholar' or 'clerk.' It reflects a heritage of learning and literacy, traditionally associated with families who preserved knowledge and historical records.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Sun
Positive Nature
Leaders, ambitious, highly driven, self-reliant, innovative.
Negative Traits
Overly aggressive, domineering, impatient, selfish.
Lucky Colours
Red, orange, gold.
Lucky Days
Sunday.
Lucky Stones
Ruby, garnet.
Harmony Numbers
2, 3, 9.
Best Suited Professions
Entrepreneurs, managers, engineers.
What People Like About You
Courage, determination, leadership.
Famous People Named Cleary
Michael Cleary
Irish Catholic Bishop
Bishop of Kingston, Ontario, known for his educational work and Irish community leadership
Patrick Cleary
Astronomer and Jesuit Priest
Director of Manila Observatory, made significant contributions to meteorology and astronomy in the Philippines
John Cleary
Australian Author
Award-winning crime novelist known for his 'Scobie Malone' detective series
Brendan Cleary
Poet
Influential Irish poet and editor, founder of the 'Electric Acorn' online poetry journal
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
Their most famous work, the Annals of the Four Masters, compiled in the 17th century by Mícheál Ó Cléirigh and his assistants, remains one of the most important sources for early Irish history. The name thus represents not just individual scholarship but a centuries-long commitment to preserving knowledge and cultural identity against external pressures. This heritage gives the name Cleary a weight of historical importance beyond many other Irish surnames, connecting bearers to a specific tradition of intellectual service and cultural preservation.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals bearing the name Cleary often exhibit intellectual curiosity and a natural inclination toward learning and analysis. They tend to be methodical thinkers with strong attention to detail, reflecting the scholarly heritage embedded in their name. Many Clearys demonstrate excellent communication skills and enjoy sharing knowledge with others, whether through teaching, writing, or mentorship. There's often a quiet confidence about them, coupled with a sense of responsibility toward preserving traditions and accurate information.
They typically value education highly and may show patience in problem-solving, preferring thorough understanding over quick solutions. While often reserved in social settings, they form deep, meaningful relationships based on mutual respect and intellectual connection. The name suggests someone who is reliable, thoughtful, and likely to excel in fields requiring precision and dedication. There's also an inherent sense of history and continuity that may manifest as respect for traditions and family heritage.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary times, Cleary remains primarily a surname but has seen increased use as a first name, particularly in Irish diaspora communities in the United States, Canada, and Australia. The name maintains its academic associations, with many modern Clearys pursuing careers in education, law, medicine, and research. While not among the most common Irish surnames, it has stable usage and recognition. Recent years have seen a modest increase in Cleary as a given name, possibly reflecting the trend toward using surnames as first names and the growing appreciation for names with strong cultural and intellectual heritage. It's particularly popular among families with Irish roots who value education and cultural continuity, often chosen by parents who wish to honor both family history and academic aspirations.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Cleary represents the preservation of knowledge through generations and the importance of cultural memory. It embodies the bridge between ancient wisdom and modern understanding, suggesting someone who carries forward traditions while adapting them to contemporary contexts. The name also symbolizes clarity of thought and expression, with linguistic connections to words meaning 'clear' or 'bright' in various languages. In a metaphorical sense, Cleary suggests illumination - both in the sense of enlightenment through learning and in bringing clarity to complex situations. It represents the scribe or chronicler who ensures that important stories and knowledge are not lost to time, making it a name that carries the weight of historical continuity and intellectual responsibility.