What does Cleve mean and where does it come from?
The name Cleve is relatively uncommon and thought to be derived from an English place name. It may also be used as a diminutive or variation of names like Cleo or Cleopatra. The use of Cleve as a first name isn't widespread but has seen some usage in the United States. Various places named Cleve exi
Cultural significance
Cleve has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of one who lives near a cliff or hill.
Peak popularity
Reached #4245 in 1928 — currently #1089 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Cleve?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Cleve?
Cleve works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cleve Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cleve Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cleve Mae
Sweet · timeless
Cleve Claire
French influence · crisp
Cleve Jane
Literary · strong
Cleve Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cleve right now?
Holding steady — currently #1089 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1089 | 1,111 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1094 | 1,091 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1099 | 1,061 | ▲ up 3501 · +21120% births |
| 1930 | #4600 | 5 | ▼ down 136 · -17% births |
| 1925 | #4464 | 6 | — |
The story of Cleve
Cleve entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. With 4,528 total births recorded, Cleve remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4464 in 1925 to #1089 in 2023. Cleve is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Cleve in 1928:
Cleve by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 295 | |
| 1890s | 219 | |
| 1900s | 171 | |
| 1910s | 490 | |
| 1920s | 580 | |
| 1930s | 502 | |
| 1940s | 553 | |
| 1950s ★ | 681 | |
| 1960s | 400 | |
| 1970s | 294 | |
| 1980s | 185 | |
| 1990s | 104 | |
| 2000s | 44 | |
| 2010s | 10 | |
💎With 4,528 total births, Cleve is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Cleve?
What names sound and feel like Cleve?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cleve also consider these
Common questions about the name Cleve
What does the name Cleve mean?
Cleve means "one who lives near a cliff or hill" — a name rooted in American 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 Cleve?
Cleve is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Cleve?
Cleve originates from American tradition. American 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 Cleve?
Cleve is a one-syllable name pronounced K L IY1 V. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Cleve sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Cleve flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Cleve ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.