What does Clara mean and where does it come from?
Clara is of Latin origin, derived from the word 'clarus', meaning 'bright' or 'clear'. The name became popular in the Middle Ages and has seen variation in several cultures, including an Italian form 'Chiara'. It is well-known in the United States and has been associated with a number of historical
Cultural significance
Clara has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Latin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bright, clear.
Peak popularity
Reached #7 in 1885 — currently #98 in the US.
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Related Reading
Latin-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Clara?
Clara works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Clara Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Clara Rose
Floral · soft ending
Clara Mae
Sweet · timeless
Clara Claire
French influence · crisp
Clara Jane
Literary · strong
Clara Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Clara right now?
Rising — up 12 spots — currently #98 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #98 | 2,661 | ▲ up 12 · +4% births |
| 2022 | #110 | 2,552 | ▼ down 9 · -5% births |
| 2021 | #101 | 2,693 | ▲ up 2 · +1% births |
| 2020 | #103 | 2,664 | ▼ down 5 · -13% births |
| 2015 | #98 | 3,064 | ▲ up 69 · +67% births |
| 2010 | #167 | 1,840 | ▲ up 80 · +39% births |
| 2005 | #247 | 1,326 | ▲ up 106 · +52% births |
| 2000 | #353 | 875 | ▲ up 44 · +33% births |
| 1995 | #397 | 660 | ▲ up 118 · +41% births |
| 1990 | #515 | 467 | ▲ up 38 · +31% births |
| 1985 | #553 | 357 | ▼ down 42 · -9% births |
| 1980 | #511 | 392 | ▲ up 11 · +16% births |
| 1975 | #522 | 337 | ▲ up 8 · -6% births |
| 1970 | #530 | 357 | ▼ down 144 · -37% births |
| 1965 | #386 | 569 | — |
The story of Clara
Clara has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It peaked at #7 in 1885, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. More than 286,776 babies have been named Clara since 1880. Clara shows a classic revival pattern — popular in the 1880s, declining mid-century, then surging back in recent decades. Clara is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Clara in 1885:
Clara by decade
Clara peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 17,800 | |
| 1890s | 25,545 | |
| 1900s | 24,013 | |
| 1910s | 44,502 | |
| 1920s ★ | 48,391 | |
| 1930s | 31,872 | |
| 1940s | 20,104 | |
| 1950s | 12,799 | |
| 1960s | 6,513 | |
| 1970s | 3,291 | |
| 1980s | 3,678 | |
| 1990s | 6,250 | |
| 2000s | 12,744 | |
| 2010s | 26,610 | |
| 2020s | 2,664 | |
What are good nicknames for Clara?
Famous people named Clara
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Clara (historical Roman figure)
Clara carried this name during the Roman Empire, giving it the enduring weight of classical civilization.
C(
Clara (Roman senator or statesman)
Clara held this name during the height of Roman civilization, when Latin names spread across Europe.
C(
Clara (Renaissance scholar)
Clara used this name during the Latin revival of the Renaissance, reinforcing its classical prestige.
C(
Clara (historical Roman figure)
Clara carried this name during the Roman Empire, giving it the enduring weight of classical civilization.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Clara?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Clara also consider these
How is Clara written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Clara
What does the name Clara mean?
Clara means "bright, clear" — a name rooted in Latin 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 Clara?
Clara is currently ranked #98 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 Clara?
Clara originates from Latin tradition. Latin 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 Clara?
Clara is a two-syllable name pronounced K L AE1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Clara more of a girl or boy name?
Clara is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.