Surname:Brearley

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The name comes from briar+lea, a topographical reference. The spelling variation Brearl(e)y represents a modern spelling of an old north of England pronunciation rhyming with "clearly". The same pronunciation is used, though not exclusively, with the other major spelling variant, Brierl(e)y as 19th century records in England adopted as a standard. [reference needed]

It is also a place name, from Brearley, Yorkshire, England. The location of this town near the border of Yorkshire and Lancashire is probably the source of so many Brearley/Brierleys in the adjoining areas of both counties.[reference needed]