“bright, clear” — Associated with nobility due to the House of Clarence
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 99% boys♀ 1% girls
#1516US 2023
684Births / yr
→Stable
304.8kAll-time births
📅 Since 188000.01% of births at peak
How to pronounce Clarence
KLER·uns
/ˈklɛr.əns/ · stress on KLER · 2 syllables
“bright, clear”
Associated with nobility due to the House of Clarence · American origin
What does Clarence mean and where does it come from?
Although traditionally a male name, Clarence has been used for females as well. It is derived from the Latin word 'clara', meaning bright or clear. The name became popular in the 19th century and is often associated with nobility due to the House of Clarence, a branch of the British royal family. Fa
Cultural significance
Clarence has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bright, clear.
Holding steady — currently #1516 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#1516 · Top 1.1%
1935
1940
1945
1950
1955
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1516
684
▲ up 5 · +3% births
2022
#1521
664
▲ up 5 · +5% births
2021
#1526
634
▲ up 11440 · +12580% births
1990
#12966
5
▼ down 6502 · -50% births
1985
#6464
10
▲ up 332 · +11% births
1980
#6796
9
▼ down 1276 · -10% births
1975
#5520
10
▼ down 1935 · -41% births
1970
#3585
17
▼ down 182 · +21% births
1965
#3403
14
▼ down 302 · -12% births
1960
#3101
16
▼ down 370 · -6% births
1955
#2731
17
▼ down 292
1950
#2439
17
▼ down 693 · -26% births
1945
#1746
23
▼ down 62 · +5% births
1940
#1684
22
▲ up 168 · +22% births
1935
#1852
18
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Clarence
1930Rank #1086
684
#2974
↘Falling
1900 - 202322 years
The story of Clarence
Clarence has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. More than 304,776 babies have been named Clarence since 1880. Once ranked #687 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1516 in 2023. Clarence is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Clarence means "bright, clear" — a name rooted in American 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 Clarence?
Clarence is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Clarence?
Clarence originates from American tradition. American 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 Clarence?
Clarence is a two-syllable name pronounced K L EH1 R AH0 N S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Clarence a common or rare name?
Clarence is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Clarence
For a sister
Clarence & Hazel♡
Clarence & Josie♡
Clarence & Georgia♡
Clarence & Walter♡
For a brother
Clarence & John♡
Clarence & Josie♡
Clarence & Georgia♡
Clarence & Walter♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1516
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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