Buckley (surname) facts for kids

The name Buckley is a common family name, also called a surname. Many people with this name live in Ireland, England, Canada, and the United States. This name has a long history, with its beginnings in either ancient Ireland or Old English times.

Where the Name Buckley Comes From

The surname Buckley has two main origins: one from England and one from Ireland.

English Origin

Some people believe the English name Buckley comes from Old English words. It might be a "habitation surname," which means it came from a place name. For example, it could be from towns called Buckley.

It could also be an "occupational surname." This means it came from a job or a description of a place. The Old English words Bucc (meaning goat) and Leah (meaning wood or forest) might have combined. So, "Buckley" could mean "goat wood."

A long time ago, a branch of the Buckley family lived in Buckley, Greater Manchester, in a town called Rochdale. They even gave their name to a large house there, called Buckley Hall. Their name might have come from words meaning "bleak hill."

Irish Origin

In Ireland, the name Buckley comes from the Irish name Ó Buachalla. This name comes from the Irish word buachaill. Long ago, buachaill meant herdsman, someone who looked after animals. Today, in modern Irish, buachaill means boy.

Over time, Ó Buachalla changed its spelling to sound more English. Some older spellings include Ó Boughelly, Boughla, and Buhilly. Eventually, it became Buckley.

Famous People Named Buckley

Many people named Buckley have become famous in different fields. Here are a few examples:

• A. J. Buckley (born 1978) is an American actor. He is known for his roles in TV shows like CSI: NY.
• Betty Buckley (born 1947) is an American actress and singer. She has starred in many Broadway musicals and films.
• Bryan Buckley (born 1963) is an American film director. He is famous for directing many Super Bowl commercials.
• Carol Buckley (born 1954) is an American elephant caregiver. She founded a sanctuary for elephants.
• Christopher Buckley (novelist) (born 1952) is an American author. He writes funny novels and essays.
• Delron Buckley (born 1977) is a South African footballer. He played for his country's national team.
• Jeff Buckley (1966–1997) was an American singer and songwriter. He was known for his amazing voice.
• Jessie Buckley (born 1989) is an Irish actress and singer. She has been nominated for many awards for her acting.
• Nathan Buckley (born 1972) is a famous Australian rules footballer and coach. He is considered one of the best players ever.
• Terrell Buckley (born 1971) is an American football player and coach. He played as a cornerback in the NFL.
• William F. Buckley Jr. (1925–2008) was an American writer and public speaker. He was a well-known voice in American politics.

See also

• List of Old English (Anglo-Saxon) surnames
• Buckley (disambiguation)
• Buckby (surname)
• Buckbee