What does Clema mean and where does it come from?
Clema is derived from the Greek name 'Klema', which is a variation of 'Clementia' and carries the meaning of 'mercy' or 'gentleness'. The name is traditionally found in Italy and Greece and reflects a quality of kindness. Although it is less common today, it has historical roots dating back to early
Cultural significance
Clema has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Italy-speaking communities, where it reflects values of derived from 'clementia', meaning 'mercy' or 'gentleness'.
Peak popularity
Reached #1603 in 1893 — currently #1274 in the US.
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Related Reading
Italy-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Clema?
Clema works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Clema Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Clema Rose
Floral · soft ending
Clema Mae
Sweet · timeless
Clema Claire
French influence · crisp
Clema Jane
Literary · strong
Clema Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Clema right now?
Holding steady — currently #1274 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1274 | 926 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1279 | 906 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1284 | 876 | ▲ up 2686 · +14500% births |
| 1940 | #3970 | 6 | ▼ down 215 · -14% births |
| 1930 | #3755 | 7 | ▼ down 1 · -12% births |
| 1925 | #3754 | 8 | ▲ up 322 · +14% births |
| 1920 | #4076 | 7 | ▼ down 1637 · -42% births |
| 1915 | #2439 | 12 | ▼ down 567 · +50% births |
| 1910 | #1872 | 8 | ▲ up 212 · +60% births |
| 1905 | #2084 | 5 | — |
The story of Clema
Clema has been a beloved American name for over 131 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1893. With 196 total births recorded, Clema remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2084 in 1905 to #1274 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Clema in 1893:
Clema by decade
Clema peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 5 | |
| 1900s | 10 | |
| 1910s ★ | 72 | |
| 1920s | 66 | |
| 1930s | 37 | |
| 1940s | 6 | |
💎Clema has only 196 total recorded births since 1893 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Clema?
What names sound and feel like Clema?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Clema also consider these
Common questions about the name Clema
What does the name Clema mean?
Clema means "derived from 'Clementia', meaning 'mercy' or 'gentleness'" — a name rooted in Italy 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 Clema?
Clema is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Clema?
Clema originates from Italy tradition. Italy names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Clema a common or rare name?
Clema is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Clema?
Clema 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.