What does Cletes mean and where does it come from?
Cletes is derived from the Greek name 'Kletos' (Κλήτος), meaning 'glorious' or 'famous'. It has historical roots in ancient Greece and has been borne by several figures in Greco-Roman literature. The name is largely uncommon in modern times but may still be found in regions influenced by Greek cultu
Cultural significance
Cletes has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of famous/glorious.
Peak popularity
Reached #3699 in 1915 — currently #955 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Cletes?
Cletes works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cletes Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cletes Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cletes Mae
Sweet · timeless
Cletes Claire
French influence · crisp
Cletes Jane
Literary · strong
Cletes Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cletes right now?
Holding steady — currently #955 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #955 | 1,245 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #960 | 1,225 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #965 | 1,195 | ▲ up 3656 · +23800% births |
| 1920 | #4621 | 5 | ▼ down 922 · -17% births |
| 1915 | #3699 | 6 | — |
The story of Cletes
Cletes entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. With 16 total births recorded, Cletes remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3699 in 1915 to #955 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Cletes in 1915:
💎Cletes has only 16 total recorded births since 1915 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Cletes?
Common
CleCletCletieCletyEtes
What names sound and feel like Cletes?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cletes also consider these
Common questions about the name Cletes
What does the name Cletes mean?
Cletes means "famous/glorious" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Cletes?
Cletes is currently ranked #955 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 Cletes?
Cletes originates from Greece tradition. Greece names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Cletes a common or rare name?
Cletes is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Cletes?
Cletes 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.