What does Clayborn mean and where does it come from?
Clayborn is of Old English origin, stemming from the words 'clay' and 'born'. It can refer to someone born in a place characterized by clay soil. The name is relatively modern and less common, primarily found in the United States as a surname and given name since the late 20th century.
Cultural significance
Clayborn has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of born in clay.
Peak popularity
Reached #1602 in 1912 — currently #511 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Clayborn?
Clayborn works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Clayborn Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Clayborn Rose
Floral · soft ending
Clayborn Mae
Sweet · timeless
Clayborn Claire
French influence · crisp
Clayborn Jane
Literary · strong
Clayborn Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Clayborn right now?
Holding steady — currently #511 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #511 | 1,689 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #516 | 1,669 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #521 | 1,639 | ▲ up 11627 · +32680% births |
| 2015 | #12148 | 5 | ▼ down 1709 |
| 2000 | #10439 | 5 | ▼ down 3178 · -17% births |
| 1990 | #7261 | 6 | ▼ down 1395 |
| 1985 | #5866 | 6 | ▲ up 521 · +20% births |
| 1980 | #6387 | 5 | ▼ down 788 |
| 1975 | #5599 | 5 | ▼ down 733 |
| 1970 | #4866 | 5 | ▼ down 1782 · -37% births |
| 1965 | #3084 | 8 | ▲ up 86 |
| 1960 | #3170 | 8 | ▲ up 129 · +14% births |
| 1955 | #3299 | 7 | ▼ down 169 |
| 1950 | #3130 | 7 | ▼ down 474 · -12% births |
| 1945 | #2656 | 8 | — |
The story of Clayborn
Clayborn entered American naming records in 1909 and has been in use for over 115 years. With 736 total births recorded, Clayborn remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1790 in 1910 to #511 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Clayborn in 1912:
Clayborn by decade
Clayborn peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 83 | |
| 1920s ★ | 114 | |
| 1930s | 103 | |
| 1940s | 104 | |
| 1950s | 98 | |
| 1960s | 87 | |
| 1970s | 74 | |
| 1980s | 21 | |
| 1990s | 32 | |
| 2000s | 10 | |
| 2010s | 5 | |
💎Clayborn has only 736 total recorded births since 1909 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Clayborn?
What names sound and feel like Clayborn?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Clayborn also consider these
Common questions about the name Clayborn
What does the name Clayborn mean?
Clayborn means "Born in Clay" — 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 Clayborn?
Clayborn is currently ranked #511 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Clayborn?
Clayborn 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.
What are good nicknames for Clayborn?
Clayborn naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.
What personality traits are associated with the name Clayborn?
Studies on name perception suggest that Clayborn is often associated with strength and reliability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.