McCarleys

McCarleys is a surname of Irish origin. It is believed to be an anglicized form of the Gaelic Mac Cárthaigh, meaning "son of Cárthach." The root name Cárthach itself is derived from the Irish word "cárthach," which can mean "loving" or "valiant." As with many Irish surnames, variations in spelling can be found throughout history and across different regions.

The name is most commonly associated with County Cork in Munster, Ireland, where the powerful Mac Cárthaigh dynasty was a prominent ruling family for centuries. This clan played a significant role in the political landscape of medieval Ireland, often engaging in conflicts with other Gaelic chieftains and the Anglo-Normans. The Mac Cárthaighs were known for their patronage of the arts and their contributions to Irish history and culture. Over time, as Irish families emigrated, the surname McCarleys spread to other parts of the world, notably to the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Individuals bearing the McCarleys surname can be found in various professions and walks of life, continuing the legacy of their ancestors.