What does Cleta mean and where does it come from?
Cleta is derived from the Greek name Klētos (Κλήτος), meaning 'called' or 'glory'. It was popularly used in ancient Greece and has Mediterranean roots. Additionally, it has variation in Spanish contexts where it can be viewed as a short form of names like Leticia. Although not extensively popular to
Cultural significance
Cleta has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of glory.
Peak popularity
Reached #550 in 1935 — currently #801 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Cleta?
Cleta works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cleta Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cleta Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cleta Mae
Sweet · timeless
Cleta Claire
French influence · crisp
Cleta Jane
Literary · strong
Cleta Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cleta right now?
Holding steady — currently #801 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #801 | 1,399 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #806 | 1,379 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #811 | 1,349 | ▲ up 7409 · +19171% births |
| 1980 | #8220 | 7 | ▼ down 174 · +17% births |
| 1975 | #8046 | 6 | ▼ down 2595 · -33% births |
| 1970 | #5451 | 9 | ▼ down 2786 · -57% births |
| 1960 | #2665 | 21 | ▼ down 1275 · -60% births |
| 1955 | #1390 | 52 | ▼ down 66 · +8% births |
| 1950 | #1324 | 48 | ▼ down 298 · -16% births |
| 1945 | #1026 | 57 | ▼ down 211 · -26% births |
| 1940 | #815 | 77 | ▼ down 265 · -43% births |
| 1935 | #550 | 136 | ▲ up 186 · +49% births |
| 1930 | #736 | 91 | ▲ up 28 · -4% births |
| 1925 | #764 | 95 | ▲ up 21 · +10% births |
| 1920 | #785 | 86 | — |
The story of Cleta
Cleta has been a beloved American name for over 139 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1885. With 4,012 total births recorded, Cleta remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1160 in 1885 to #801 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Cleta in 1935:
Cleta by decade
Cleta peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 15 | |
| 1890s | 67 | |
| 1900s | 158 | |
| 1910s | 626 | |
| 1920s | 890 | |
| 1930s ★ | 988 | |
| 1940s | 617 | |
| 1950s | 435 | |
| 1960s | 140 | |
| 1970s | 69 | |
| 1980s | 7 | |
💎With 4,012 total births, Cleta is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Cleta?
Famous people named Cleta
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Cleta (ancient philosopher)
Cleta bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
C(
Cleta (Greek mythological figure)
Cleta carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
C(
Cleta (Byzantine leader)
Cleta used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
C(
Cleta (Greek poet or artist)
Cleta helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Cleta?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cleta also consider these
Common questions about the name Cleta
What does the name Cleta mean?
Cleta 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 Cleta?
Cleta is currently ranked #801 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 Cleta?
Cleta 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.
Is Cleta a common or rare name?
Cleta is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Cleta a classic or a modern name?
Cleta has Greek roots that go back thousands of years, making it a genuine classic rather than a modern invention. Its staying power across generations reflects its fundamental appeal and the strength of its meaning.