What does Cleo mean and where does it come from?
Cleo is derived from the Greek name 'Kleopatra', which means 'glory of the father'. It holds ties to the ancient Egyptian queen Cleopatra VII, a figure of historical and cultural importance. The name has seen a revival in modern times and is used in various contexts, often symbolizing power and femi
Cultural significance
Cleo has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of glory.
Peak popularity
Reached #171 in 1907 — currently #577 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Cleo?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Cleo?
Cleo works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cleo Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Cleo John
One syllable · timeless choice
Cleo Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Cleo Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Cleo Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Cleo Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Cleo right now?
Rising — up 30 spots — currently #577 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #577 | 516 | ▲ up 30 · +4% births |
| 2024 | #607 | 495 | ▲ up 3 · +1% births |
| 2023 | #610 | 488 | ▲ up 53 · +10% births |
| 2022 | #663 | 445 | ▲ up 133 · +25% births |
| 2021 | #796 | 355 | ▲ up 88 · +19% births |
| 2020 | #884 | 299 | ▲ up 868 · +151% births |
| 2015 | #1752 | 119 | ▲ up 672 · +55% births |
| 2010 | #2424 | 77 | ▲ up 655 · +51% births |
| 2005 | #3079 | 51 | ▼ down 747 · -23% births |
| 2000 | #2332 | 66 | ▲ up 645 · +69% births |
| 1995 | #2977 | 39 | ▼ down 78 |
| 1990 | #2899 | 39 | ▼ down 416 |
| 1985 | #2483 | 39 | ▲ up 520 · +34% births |
| 1980 | #3003 | 29 | ▼ down 319 · +4% births |
| 1975 | #2684 | 28 | — |
The story of Cleo
Cleo has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 42,672 babies have received this name. Once ranked #406 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #610 in 2023. Cleo is used for both genders: 73% female and 27% male.
Names that peaked alongside Cleo in 1907:
Cleo by decade
Cleo peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 410 | |
| 1890s | 1,319 | |
| 1900s | 2,878 | |
| 1910s | 9,717 | |
| 1920s ★ | 11,187 | |
| 1930s | 6,059 | |
| 1940s | 3,507 | |
| 1950s | 2,195 | |
| 1960s | 1,030 | |
| 1970s | 661 | |
| 1980s | 544 | |
| 1990s | 641 | |
| 2000s | 702 | |
| 2010s | 1,508 | |
| 2020s | 1,364 | |
What are good nicknames for Cleo?
Famous people named Cleo
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Cleo (ancient philosopher)
Cleo bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
C(
Cleo (Greek mythological figure)
Cleo carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
C(
Cleo (modern Greek athlete)
Cleo brought this name to international sporting recognition representing Greece.
C(
Cleo (ancient philosopher)
Cleo bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2025
Explore →What names sound and feel like Cleo?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cleo also consider these
How is Cleo written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Cleo
What does the name Cleo mean?
Cleo means "glory" — a name rooted in Greek 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 Cleo?
Cleo is currently ranked #610 as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Cleo have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Cleo?
Cleo originates from Greek tradition. Greek 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 Cleo?
Cleo is a two-syllable name pronounced KLEE-oh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Cleo trending right now?
Cleo is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.