Last Name Clerch

Learn more about the origin of the last name Clerch

The meaning and origin of the last name Clerch

The surname Clerch is primarily of French origin, derived from various place names across France, particularly those ending with "clerc" which means 'clerk' or scholar in Old French. These locations were named after early inhabitants who held clerical positions, such as priests or scholars, and over time, the name became a hereditary one, passed down through generations. The surname Clerch, spelled with various minor variations like Clerc, Clarke, or Clark, can now be found in many countries where French settlers or immigrants have resided, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and the United States. It is worth noting that in some cases, the name may also represent an occupational surname for a learned individual, such as a scholar or clergyman.

Geographical distribution of the last name Clerch

The surname Clerch is predominantly found in France and Switzerland, with significant concentrations in both countries. In France, it is most common in the regions of Alsace and Franche-Comté, areas that were historically part of the Holy Roman Empire and have a strong Germanic influence. In Switzerland, it is particularly prevalent in the canton of Vaud, where it may have originated as a variant of the French name Clerc (meaning 'clergyman'). The surname Clerch can also be found in smaller numbers in other parts of Europe, such as Germany and Belgium, possibly due to migration from France or Switzerland. In addition, there are some instances of Clerch families in North America, particularly in the United States, where they may have immigrated from Europe during periods of increased emigration in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Clerch

The surname Clerch can be found with various spelling variations due to differences in transliteration, transcription, and regional dialects over time. Some common variants include: Clerck, Clarke, Clark, Clarich, Clarech, and Clerk. These variations are the result of changes in pronunciation, spelling standards, and migration patterns throughout history. The name's origin is rooted in Old French, derived from the occupational name "clerc" or "clerque," meaning "clergyman." It was often adopted as a nickname for those who behaved piously or had a scholarly demeanor, even if not actually clerics. These variations continue to be common today, with individuals bearing these surnames across the world.

Famous people with the last name Clerch

Among notable individuals with the surname Clerc are:

1. Jean-Baptiste Clément Janin Leclerc (1734–1802), also known as Leclerc de Juigné, a French naval officer and governor-general of the French colonies in the Indian Ocean.
2. Pierre-Simon Laplace (1749–1827), born with the surname Clerc, was a French mathematician and physicist who is regarded as one of the greatest mathematicians of all time.
3. Henri Clerc (1905–1944), a French Resistance member during World War II, known for his role in saving hundreds of Jewish children by sending them to safety through a network he established called "The Children's Line."
4. Marc Clerc (born 1962), a Swiss alpine skier who won two gold medals at the 1980 Winter Olympics in slalom and giant slalom events.
5. Pierre-Alain Clerc (born 1963), a French composer known for his work in video game music, including the soundtrack for Prince of Persia.

Genealogical research on the last name Clerch

The surname Clerch originates from France and is derived from the Old French word "clerc," meaning clergyman. It was originally an occupational name for a member of the clergy or a teacher, denoting someone educated in ecclesiastical matters. The name is found in various spellings including Clerc, Clerch, Clerk, and Clirke, due to phonetic spelling variations common in medieval documents.

Notable bearers of the name include Henri de Clerc (died 1439), a French prelate who served as Archbishop of Reims; and Sir Edward Clerke (c. 1568–1627), an English politician who served as Member of Parliament for New Shoreham, Sussex. The name is also found in Scotland, where it may have been brought by French immigrants following the Norman Conquest of England in 1066.

In modern times, the Clerch surname can be found primarily in France and English-speaking countries, with concentrations in Quebec, Canada, and various parts of the United States. Genealogical research on individuals with this surname may reveal a rich history rooted in religious or educational pursuits.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "clerch"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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 : 29 July 2025