What does Clare mean and where does it come from?
Clare is derived from the Latin name 'Clara'. It has been a popular name in Ireland and is associated with County Clare. The name Clare has been in use since the 12th century and remains popular today. Notable bearers include Clare Balding, a prominent British sports presenter.
Cultural significance
Clare has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of latin.
Peak popularity
Reached #321 in 1884 — currently #924 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Clare?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Clare?
Clare works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Clare Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Clare Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Clare Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Clare Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Clare Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Clare Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Clare right now?
Rising — up 25 spots — currently #924 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #924 | 283 | ▲ up 25 · +2% births |
| 2024 | #949 | 277 | ▲ up 35 · +7% births |
| 2023 | #984 | 260 | ▲ up 27 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #1011 | 257 | ▼ down 175 · -22% births |
| 2021 | #836 | 329 | ▼ down 13 |
| 2020 | #823 | 328 | ▼ down 96 · -16% births |
| 2015 | #727 | 389 | ▼ down 46 · -8% births |
| 2010 | #681 | 421 | ▼ down 8 · +2% births |
| 2005 | #673 | 412 | ▼ down 138 · -15% births |
| 2000 | #535 | 485 | ▲ up 52 · +25% births |
| 1995 | #587 | 387 | ▲ up 69 · +14% births |
| 1990 | #656 | 338 | ▲ up 142 · +63% births |
| 1985 | #798 | 208 | ▲ up 279 · +59% births |
| 1980 | #1077 | 131 | ▼ down 11 · +19% births |
| 1975 | #1066 | 110 | — |
The story of Clare
Clare has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 33,093 babies have received this name. Once ranked #435 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #984 in 2023. Clare is used for both genders: 91% female and 9% male.
Names that peaked alongside Clare in 1884:
Clare by decade
Clare peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 367 | |
| 1890s | 567 | |
| 1900s | 747 | |
| 1910s | 2,279 | |
| 1920s | 3,192 | |
| 1930s | 2,372 | |
| 1940s | 2,490 | |
| 1950s | 3,118 | |
| 1960s | 2,335 | |
| 1970s | 1,115 | |
| 1980s | 2,040 | |
| 1990s | 3,972 | |
| 2000s ★ | 4,395 | |
| 2010s | 3,776 | |
| 2020s | 888 | |
What are good nicknames for Clare?
What names sound and feel like Clare?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Clare also consider these
How is Clare written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Clare?
Common questions about the name Clare
What does the name Clare mean?
Clare means "Latin" — a name rooted in Ireland 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 Clare?
Clare is currently ranked #984 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 Clare?
Clare originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Clare a common or rare name?
Clare is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Clare more of a girl or boy name?
Clare is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.