Clarke Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Clarke come from? What does the surname Clarke mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Clarke and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Clarke Origin: What does the last name Clarke mean?
The surname Clarke, meaning "clerk", has English and Irish origins, with the English version originating from Anglo-Saxon times and used to denote a scribe or secretary. The Irish version, derived from the Gaelic sept Ó Cléirigh, spread from County Galway and County Antrim to other regions. Variants like Clerk and Clark also exist, with Beauclerk and Leclerc related to the name. The surname became popular due to its association with literacy and scholarly professions, with the English spelling variations Clarke and Clark. YourRoots data indicates the surname's presence in England from the 12th century, with a significant global spread over the centuries.
According to YourRoots, the Clarke surname has historical ties to England and the United States, with a growing presence in countries like Canada, Australia, Ireland, and South Africa. The surname has evolved over time, reflecting a legacy of literacy and scholarly pursuits. Today, individuals with the Clarke surname can be found in various countries worldwide, showcasing its enduring significance and widespread adoption across diverse cultures and regions.
Clarke Last Name History: Where did the last name Clarke come from?
Origin of Clarke Surname: Where does the last name Clarke originate from?
Our YourRoots data indicates that the earliest record of the surname Clarke is found in England around the start of the 12th century. This pertains to the exact spelling of 'Clarke' and does not include variations or other record sources.
History of the Last Name Clarke: What does the Clarke surname history look like in the early days?
The Clarke surname is predominantly linked to England from the 12th through to the 15th century, according to YourRoots data. However, the data also shows a significant presence of the Clarke surname in the United States, particularly from the 18th century onwards. This hints at the global spread of the surname over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Clarke surname today?
The volume of records for the Clarke surname saw a significant rise in the United States from the 18th century onwards, even surpassing its frequency in England during the same period. Even in the 21st century, the Clarke surname appears predominantly in the United States and England, according to the YourRoots database. The surname is also prevalent in various countries globally, including but not limited to Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, Wales, and South Africa.
Explore Clarke last name heritage and Clarke surname origin based on YourRoots Map data
VIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME CLARKE
Famous People With Clarke Surame?
Sarah Clarke
Sarah Lively Clarke (February 16, 1972 - present) is an American actress best known for her role as Nina Myers on the popular TV show "24" and as Renée Dwyer in the "Twilight" film series. She has also appeared in shows like "Trust Me" and "Covert Affairs," showcasing her talent across various genres. Clarke's career started with a notable Volkswagen commercial and has since flourished with award-winning performances in both film and television. Off-screen, she is married to fellow actor Xander Berkeley, with whom she shares two daughters.
Melinda Clarke
Melinda Patrice "Mindy" Clarke (April 24, 1969) is an American actress known for her roles in popular TV series. She portrayed Julie Cooper on Fox's teen drama The O.C., Lady Heather on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, and Amanda on Nikita. Clarke's versatility shines through her portrayal of complex and intriguing characters, earning her a loyal fan base. With appearances in iconic shows like Seinfeld and The Vampire Diaries, Clarke has showcased her talent across various genres. Additionally, she co-hosts the podcast Welcome to the OC, Bitches! with Rachel Bilson, further engaging with her audience and staying connected to her fans.
Roy Clarke
Royston Clarke (born Jan 28, 1930) is an English comedy writer known for creating iconic sitcoms like Last of the Summer Wine, Keeping Up Appearances, and Open All Hours. Clarke's career spans from writing thrillers for BBC Radio to receiving an OBE for his contribution to British comedy. He created beloved characters like Clegg and Hyacinth, leaving a lasting impact on British television. Clarke's work has entertained millions and earned him accolades, including a lifetime achievement award at the British Comedy Awards.
Isaac Clarke
Isaac Clarke (born March 15, 2465) is a fictional character in the popular survival horror media franchise Dead Space. He is the protagonist of the Dead Space video games, where he battles against horrifying undead creatures known as Necromorphs. Named after renowned science fiction writers Isaac Asimov and Arthur C. Clarke, Isaac is an engineer who must uncover the mysteries behind alien artifacts and survive in intense, terrifying environments. Voiced by actor Gunner Wright, Isaac has become a beloved character in the gaming community, with his immersive experiences and compelling storylines captivating players worldwide.
Gary Clarke
Gary Clarke (Clarke Frederick L'Amoreaux; August 16, 1933) is an American actor best known for his role as Steve Hill in the NBC Western television series The Virginian with James Drury and Doug McClure. He was born in Los Angeles, California, and began his acting career in high school, eventually landing roles in films like "Dragstrip Riot" and on TV shows like "The Virginian" and "Hondo." Clarke also ventured into writing and producing, contributing to shows like "Get Smart" and appearing in projects like "Dynasty" and "The Young Riders." With a diverse career spanning decades, Clarke continues to leave his mark on the entertainment industry.
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