Cleavon

“Cliff-side”

American origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#1936US 2023

264Births / yr

→Stable

241All-time births

📅 Since 192100

What does Cleavon mean and where does it come from?

Cleavon is considered an American name, derived from the English word 'cleave,' which relates to a 'cliff' or 'to split.' It is not commonly used today, but has made appearances in American pop culture. Notably, Cleavon Little was an American actor who gained fame for his role in the film 'Blazing S

Cultural significance

Cleavon has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of cliff-side.

Peak popularity

Reached #1395 in 1973 — currently #1936 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Cleavon?

Cleavon works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Cleavon Grace

How popular is Cleavon right now?

Holding steady — currently #1936 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1950–2023#1936 · Top 1.4%

1950

1970

1975

1980

1985

2005

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1936	264	▲ up 5 · +8% births
2022	#1941	244	▲ up 5 · +14% births
2021	#1946	214	▲ up 9735 · +4180% births
2005	#11681	5	▼ down 5726 · -17% births
1985	#5955	6	▼ down 213
1980	#5742	6	▼ down 3045 · -60% births
1975	#2697	15	▼ down 345 · -6% births
1970	#2352	16	▲ up 1249 · +167% births
1950	#3601	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Cleavon

Best Year2023Rank #1936

Peak Count264

Average Rank#4206

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1950 - 20239 years

The story of Cleavon

Cleavon entered American naming records in 1921 and has been in use for over 103 years. With 241 total births recorded, Cleavon remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3601 in 1950 to #1936 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Cleavon in 1973:

Michael Christopher Jason James David

Cleavon by decade

Cleavon peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →

Decade	Births
1920s	5
1930s	9
1940s	5
1950s	6
1970s ★	134
1980s	50
1990s	17
2000s	15

💎Cleavon has only 241 total recorded births since 1921 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Cleavon?

Common

CleCleavCleavieCleavyAvon

What names sound and feel like Cleavon?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cleavon also consider these

Cleason

American · A variant of

Cleamon

American · English

Clevon

American · A variant of

Leavon

American · English

Clayvon

American · Clay from the

Treavon

American · Derived form of

Clavon

USA · A modern invention,

Deavon

American · A beloved name

Common questions about the name Cleavon

What does the name Cleavon mean?

Cleavon means "Cliff-side" — 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 Cleavon?

Cleavon is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Cleavon?

Cleavon 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.

Is Cleavon a common or rare name?

Cleavon is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.

What are good nicknames for Cleavon?

Cleavon 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.