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Last Name Clap

What is the origin of the last name Clap?

The last name "Clap" is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "claep" which means "lump" or "hillock." The name may have originally been used to describe someone who lived near a small hill or mound. Over time, the spelling of the name may have been altered to "Clap."

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Clap

The meaning and origin of the last name Clap

The surname Clap originates from England and is derived from the Old English word "clæppa," which means 'loud noise' or 'clapper.' It is believed to have originally been used as an occupational name for someone who worked as a town crier or a bell ringer, as well as for someone who lived near a notable bell tower. The surname may also have been used to describe someone with a loud voice or who had a tendency to make a lot of noise. Over time, the surname Clap has been found in various regions in England and has undergone changes in spelling and pronunciation. Today, individuals with the surname Clap can be found worldwide, with variations such as Clapp and Clapper also existing.

Geographical distribution of the last name Clap

The last name Clap is not a common surname and is relatively rare, with the majority of individuals bearing this name residing in the United States. According to data from surname distribution mapping websites, such as Forebears.io, the highest concentration of individuals with the last name Clap can be found in the state of Massachusetts, followed by New York and Michigan. Other states with smaller populations of individuals with the last name Clap include California, Texas, and Illinois. Additionally, there are some individuals with the surname Clap residing in countries such as England, Canada, and Australia, but in much smaller numbers. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Clap indicates that it is a surname primarily associated with individuals in the United States, particularly in the Northeast region.

Variants and spellings of the last name Clap

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Famous people with the last name Clap

One famous person with the last name Clap is Eric Clapton, a legendary guitarist known for his blues and rock music. He has had a successful music career spanning decades, earning multiple Grammy Awards and being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Another famous individual with the last name Clap is Margaux Plamondon-Clapin, a Canadian film director and screenwriter who has received critical acclaim for her work. Both Eric Clapton and Margaux Plamondon-Clapin have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

Genealogical research on the last name Clap

The surname Clap is of English origin and is believed to be derived from the Old English word "cloep" or "clap," meaning a loud noise or a sudden blow. The name may have originated as a nickname for someone with a loud or striking personality. The earliest recorded instances of the Clap surname date back to the 13th century in England, particularly in the counties of Norfolk and Suffolk. Over time, the name spread to other parts of the country and even internationally. Today, there are various spellings of the surname, including Clapp, Clappe, and Clape, among others. Genealogical research on the Clap surname may reveal a diverse range of individuals and families with connections to different regions and historical periods.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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