“Clear, bright, famous” — Associated with clarity and brightness of mind
French origin · Girl name
♂ 1% boys♀ 99% girls
#67US 2023
3.2kBirths / yr
→Stable
196.9kAll-time births
📅 Since 1880🏆 23 years in top 1000.29% of births at peak
How to pronounce Claire
KLER
/ˈklɛr/ · stress on KLER · 1 syllable
“Clear, bright, famous”
Associated with clarity and brightness of mind · French origin
What does Claire mean and where does it come from?
Claire is a French name derived from the Latin 'clara' which means 'clear' or 'bright.' It became popular in the 19th century and has remained a classic choice in English-speaking countries. The name is often associated with clarity and brightness of mind. Notable figures include Claire Danes, an ac
Cultural significance
Claire has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in French-speaking communities, where it reflects values of clear, bright, famous.
Holding steady — currently #67 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#67 · Top 0.05%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#67
3,199
▼ down 1 · -5% births
2022
#66
3,380
▼ down 7 · -9% births
2021
#59
3,703
▼ down 2 · -3% births
2020
#57
3,822
▼ down 8 · -21% births
2015
#49
4,829
▲ up 4 · -2% births
2010
#53
4,915
▲ up 42 · +49% births
2005
#95
3,293
▼ down 9 · -11% births
2000
#86
3,711
▲ up 43 · +50% births
1995
#129
2,473
▲ up 29 · +33% births
1990
#158
1,859
▲ up 62 · +57% births
1985
#220
1,186
▲ up 184 · +110% births
1980
#404
566
▲ up 72 · +46% births
1975
#476
387
▲ up 71 · +13% births
1970
#547
342
▼ down 144 · -35% births
1965
#403
526
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Claire
2015Rank #49
4,915
#203
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Claire
Claire has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #40 in 2016. More than 196,904 babies have been named Claire since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #354 in 1880 to #67 in 2023. Claire is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Claire means "Clear, bright, famous" — a name rooted in French 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 Claire?
Claire is currently ranked #67 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Claire?
Claire originates from French tradition. French 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 Claire?
Claire 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 Claire sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Claire flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Claire ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Claire
For a sister
Claire & Adeline♡
Claire & Noelle♡
Claire & Vivienne♡
Claire & Elise♡
For a brother
Claire & Adeline♡
Claire & Beau♡
Claire & Noelle♡
Claire & Elise♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#67
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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