What does Clair mean and where does it come from?
The name Clair is derived from the French word 'clair', meaning 'clear' or 'bright'. It can be a variant of Claire, which shares a similar meaning. The name has been used in various forms across Europe and has seen popularity in English-speaking countries since the 19th century. One notable bearer o
Cultural significance
Clair has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of clear, bright.
Peak popularity
Reached #848 in 1899 — currently #4775 in the US.
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Related Reading
France-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Clair?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Clair?
Clair works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Clair Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Clair Rose
Floral · soft ending
Clair Mae
Sweet · timeless
Clair Claire
French influence · crisp
Clair Jane
Literary · strong
Clair Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Clair right now?
Rising fast — up 1730 spots — currently #4775 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #4775 | 28 | ▲ up 1730 · +56% births |
| 2022 | #6505 | 18 | ▼ down 1515 · -31% births |
| 2021 | #4990 | 26 | ▼ down 677 · -16% births |
| 2020 | #4313 | 31 | ▼ down 975 · -35% births |
| 2015 | #3338 | 48 | ▲ up 281 · +12% births |
| 2010 | #3619 | 43 | ▼ down 410 · -10% births |
| 2005 | #3209 | 48 | ▼ down 354 · -4% births |
| 2000 | #2855 | 50 | ▼ down 665 · -18% births |
| 1995 | #2190 | 61 | ▲ up 275 · +24% births |
| 1990 | #2465 | 49 | ▼ down 488 · -11% births |
| 1985 | #1977 | 55 | ▲ up 1636 · +150% births |
| 1980 | #3613 | 22 | ▼ down 926 · -21% births |
| 1975 | #2687 | 28 | ▲ up 762 · +56% births |
| 1970 | #3449 | 18 | ▼ down 181 · +20% births |
| 1965 | #3268 | 15 | — |
The story of Clair
Clair has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 16,220 babies have received this name. Once ranked #849 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #4775 in 2023. Clair is used for both genders: 26% female and 74% male.
Names that peaked alongside Clair in 1899:
Clair by decade
Clair peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 166 | |
| 1890s | 352 | |
| 1900s | 489 | |
| 1910s | 2,458 | |
| 1920s ★ | 3,539 | |
| 1930s | 2,609 | |
| 1940s | 1,862 | |
| 1950s | 1,437 | |
| 1960s | 777 | |
| 1970s | 405 | |
| 1980s | 542 | |
| 1990s | 577 | |
| 2000s | 528 | |
| 2010s | 443 | |
| 2020s | 36 | |
What are good nicknames for Clair?
What names sound and feel like Clair?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Clair also consider these
How is Clair written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Clair
What does the name Clair mean?
Clair means "clear, bright" — a name rooted in France tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Clair?
Clair is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Clair?
Clair originates from France tradition. France names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Clair?
Clair is a one-syllable name pronounced K L EH1 R. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Clair sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Clair flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Clair ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.