What does Clark mean and where does it come from?
Clark is traditionally a male name of English origin but has become increasingly popular as a female name in contemporary usage. Historically, it is derived from the Old English word 'clerc', meaning 'clerk', 'scholar', or 'scribe'. The name has been used by many notable figures including William Cl
Cultural significance
Clark has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of cleric, scribe.
Peak popularity
Reached #377 in 2025 — currently #377 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Clark?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Clark?
Clark works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Clark Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Clark John
One syllable · timeless choice
Clark Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Clark Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Clark Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Clark Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Clark right now?
Rising fast — up 60 spots — currently #377 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #377 | 837 | ▲ up 60 · +15% births |
| 2024 | #437 | 726 | stable · +2% births |
| 2023 | #437 | 709 | ▼ down 10 · -3% births |
| 2022 | #427 | 729 | ▼ down 31 · -8% births |
| 2021 | #396 | 793 | ▲ up 4877 · +3348% births |
| 2020 | #5273 | 23 | ▲ up 2332 · +53% births |
| 2015 | #7605 | 15 | ▲ up 9388 · +200% births |
| 2010 | #16993 | 5 | ▼ down 2473 · -17% births |
| 2005 | #14520 | 6 | ▼ down 9933 · +20% births |
| 1945 | #4587 | 5 | ▼ down 19 |
| 1930 | #4568 | 5 | ▲ up 426 |
| 1920 | #4994 | 5 | — |
The story of Clark
Clark entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. A total of 47,289 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4994 in 1920 to #437 in 2023. Clark is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Clark in 2025:
Clark by decade
Clark peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 513 | |
| 1890s | 505 | |
| 1900s | 502 | |
| 1910s | 2,390 | |
| 1920s | 2,925 | |
| 1930s | 3,766 | |
| 1940s | 5,066 | |
| 1950s | 6,636 | |
| 1960s | 6,160 | |
| 1970s | 2,542 | |
| 1980s | 3,023 | |
| 1990s | 2,710 | |
| 2000s | 2,755 | |
| 2010s ★ | 6,990 | |
| 2020s | 2,407 | |
What are good nicknames for Clark?
What names sound and feel like Clark?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Clark also consider these
Common questions about the name Clark
What does the name Clark mean?
Clark means "cleric, scribe" — 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 Clark?
Clark is currently ranked #437 in the United States 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 Clark?
Clark 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 Clark?
Clark is a one-syllable name pronounced KLAHRK. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Clark sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Clark flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Clark ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.