Buckley Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Buckley come from? What does the surname Buckley mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Buckley and family migration on YourRoots Map.
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Surname Buckley Origin: What does the last name Buckley mean?
The surname Buckley has roots in both Ireland and England, with sources suggesting either an Irish or Old English origin. In Ireland, it is believed to have derived from the Irish word 'buachaill,' originally meaning 'herdsman.' Over time, it was anglicised to variations like Boughla, Buhilly, and eventually Buckley. In England, Buckley may have originated as a habitation surname from settlements named Buckley or as an occupational surname from the words Bucc and Leah, meaning goat and wood, respectively. The Buckley family from Greater Manchester, specifically from Buckley Hall, has been traced back to a Geoffrey de Buckley, with the name thought to come from 'bleak hill.'
YourRoots data indicates that the surname Buckley first appeared in records from England around the early 14th century. Over the centuries, the frequency of Buckley records increased significantly, pointing to a gradual global spread. By the 20th century, the United States surpassed England in the frequency of Buckley records, and the surname can now be found in various regions worldwide, with a notable presence in England, the United States, and other countries.
Buckley Last Name History: Where did the last name Buckley come from?
Origin of Buckley Surname: Where does the last name Buckley originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Buckley first appeared in records from England, United Kingdom, around the early 14th century. It's crucial to remember that this data exclusively refers to YourRoots data with the exact “Buckley” spelling and does not account for other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Buckley: What does the Buckley surname history look like in the early days?
The “Buckley” surname remained primarily associated with England from the 14th through the 17th century. During this period, the volume of Buckley records increased significantly, signifying an impressive growth in the surname's frequency. YourRoots data also shows Buckley family records in other countries, indicating a gradual global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Buckley surname today?
By the 18th century, the volume of records with the Buckley surname expanded notably in England. However, by the 20th century, a significant shift was observed with the United States surpassing England in the frequency of Buckley records. This trend continued into the 21st century. Today, the “Buckley” surname can be found in various regions worldwide, with a notable presence in England, United States, and a few other countries.
Explore Buckley last name heritage and Buckley surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Buckley Surame?
Jeff Buckley
Jeffrey Scott Buckley (Nov 17, 1966 - May 29, 1997) was an influential American singer-songwriter known for his album "Grace" and his rendition of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah." Despite his untimely death by drowning, Buckley's music continues to inspire artists and fans worldwide.
Tim Buckley
Timothy Charles Buckley III (Feb 14, 1947 - Jun 29, 1975) was an American musician known for his unique five-octave vocal range. He experimented with genres like psychedelia, jazz, and funk, with his best known song being "Song to the Siren." His legacy lives on through his highly regarded son, Jeff Buckley.
Betty Buckley
Betty Lynn Buckley (born Jul 3, 1947) is an American actress and singer known for her Tony Award-winning role in Cats and her performance in the TV series Eight Is Enough. She has also appeared in films like Tender Mercies and Frantic, as well as TV shows like Oz and Preacher.
Christine Buckley
Christine Buckley (10 Oct 1946 - 11 Mar 2014) was an Irish activist and campaigner, known for her work with survivors of Industrial Schools in Ireland. Raised in Goldenbridge, she received numerous awards for her advocacy and was honored with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Trinity College, Dublin.
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