What does Clayton mean and where does it come from?
While traditionally a male name, Clayton has gained traction as a female name in recent years, especially in the United States. The name derives from the Old English 'clæg', meaning clay, and 'tūn', meaning town or settlement. The name first appeared in the 19th century.
Cultural significance
Clayton has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the clay town or settlement..
Peak popularity
Reached #2364 in 1926 — currently #310 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Clayton?
Clayton works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Clayton Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Clayton Rose
Floral · soft ending
Clayton Mae
Sweet · timeless
Clayton Claire
French influence · crisp
Clayton Jane
Literary · strong
Clayton Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Clayton right now?
Declining — down 24 spots — currently #310 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #310 | 1,067 | ▼ down 24 · -11% births |
| 2022 | #286 | 1,199 | ▼ down 7 · -3% births |
| 2021 | #279 | 1,236 | ▲ up 16713 · +24620% births |
| 2010 | #16992 | 5 | ▼ down 9407 · -62% births |
| 2000 | #7585 | 13 | ▲ up 5829 · +160% births |
| 1995 | #13414 | 5 | ▼ down 4155 · -37% births |
| 1990 | #9259 | 8 | ▼ down 916 · +14% births |
| 1985 | #8343 | 7 | ▼ down 151 |
| 1980 | #8192 | 7 | ▼ down 1001 |
| 1975 | #7191 | 7 | ▲ up 830 · +40% births |
| 1970 | #8021 | 5 | ▼ down 4573 · -29% births |
| 1935 | #3448 | 7 | ▼ down 1002 · -46% births |
| 1930 | #2446 | 13 | ▲ up 1990 · +117% births |
| 1925 | #4436 | 6 | ▼ down 1525 · -45% births |
| 1920 | #2911 | 11 | — |
The story of Clayton
Clayton entered American naming records in 1910 and has been in use for over 114 years. More than 134,145 babies have been named Clayton since 1910. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2423 in 1910 to #310 in 2023. Clayton is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Clayton in 1926:
Clayton by decade
Clayton peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 653 | |
| 1890s | 752 | |
| 1900s | 1,057 | |
| 1910s | 5,683 | |
| 1920s | 9,498 | |
| 1930s | 7,226 | |
| 1940s | 7,080 | |
| 1950s | 9,340 | |
| 1960s | 9,334 | |
| 1970s | 10,820 | |
| 1980s | 17,033 | |
| 1990s ★ | 21,858 | |
| 2000s | 18,725 | |
| 2010s | 13,923 | |
| 2020s | 1,163 | |
What are good nicknames for Clayton?
What names sound and feel like Clayton?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Clayton also consider these
Common questions about the name Clayton
What does the name Clayton mean?
Clayton means "From the clay town or settlement." — 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 Clayton?
Clayton is currently ranked #310 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 Clayton?
Clayton 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 Clayton?
Clayton is a two-syllable name pronounced K L EY1 T AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Clayton more of a girl or boy name?
Clayton is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.