What does Clemence mean and where does it come from?
Clemence is a French name that has maintained its popularity throughout the centuries. It comes from the Latin word 'clemens' meaning merciful or gentle. The name has historical roots in various saints and is connected to notable figures throughout history, making it a name with depth and reverence.
Cultural significance
Clemence has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of derived from the latin 'clemens', meaning 'merciful'.
Peak popularity
Reached #916 in 1901 — currently #600 in the US.
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Related Reading
France-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Clemence?
Clemence works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Clemence Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Clemence Rose
Floral · soft ending
Clemence Mae
Sweet · timeless
Clemence Claire
French influence · crisp
Clemence Jane
Literary · strong
Clemence Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Clemence right now?
Holding steady — currently #600 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #600 | 1,600 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #605 | 1,580 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #610 | 1,550 | ▲ up 8882 · +15400% births |
| 2020 | #9492 | 10 | ▲ up 5010 · +67% births |
| 2015 | #14502 | 6 | ▼ down 11385 · -33% births |
| 1930 | #3117 | 9 | ▼ down 142 · -18% births |
| 1925 | #2975 | 11 | ▼ down 35 |
| 1920 | #2940 | 11 | ▼ down 1029 · -35% births |
| 1915 | #1911 | 17 | ▲ up 297 · +183% births |
| 1910 | #2208 | 6 | ▼ down 603 · -14% births |
| 1905 | #1605 | 7 | ▼ down 566 · -50% births |
| 1900 | #1039 | 14 | ▲ up 229 · +75% births |
| 1895 | #1268 | 8 | ▼ down 334 · -20% births |
| 1890 | #934 | 10 | — |
The story of Clemence
Clemence has been a beloved American name for over 138 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1886. With 934 total births recorded, Clemence remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #934 in 1890 to #600 in 2023. Clemence is used for both genders: 55% female and 45% male.
Names that peaked alongside Clemence in 1901:
Clemence by decade
Clemence peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 11 | |
| 1890s | 78 | |
| 1900s | 104 | |
| 1910s ★ | 273 | |
| 1920s | 266 | |
| 1930s | 86 | |
| 1940s | 18 | |
| 1960s | 7 | |
| 1990s | 5 | |
| 2000s | 16 | |
| 2010s | 60 | |
| 2020s | 10 | |
💎Clemence has only 934 total recorded births since 1886 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Clemence?
CROATIAN
InaKlementinaTina
What names sound and feel like Clemence?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Clemence also consider these
How is Clemence written in other languages?
Gender variants of Clemence
Common questions about the name Clemence
What does the name Clemence mean?
Clemence means "derived from the Latin 'clemens', meaning 'merciful'" — a name rooted in France 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 Clemence?
Clemence is currently ranked #600 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Clemence?
Clemence originates from France tradition. France 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 Clemence?
Clemence is a two-syllable name pronounced K L EH1 M AH0 N S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Clemence more of a girl or boy name?
Clemence is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.