What does Cliford mean and where does it come from?
Cliford is of Old English origin, combining the words 'clif', meaning 'cliff', and 'ford', meaning 'river crossing'. This name has been in use since the medieval times, and exemplifies the geography of places in England. Notable bearers include the character Clifford the Big Red Dog, which contribut
Cultural significance
Cliford has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of ford by a cliff.
Peak popularity
Reached #2294 in 1925 — currently #715 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Cliford?
Cliford works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cliford Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cliford Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cliford Mae
Sweet · timeless
Cliford Claire
French influence · crisp
Cliford Jane
Literary · strong
Cliford Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cliford right now?
Holding steady — currently #715 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #715 | 1,485 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #720 | 1,465 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #725 | 1,435 | ▲ up 3092 · +23817% births |
| 1960 | #3817 | 6 | ▼ down 629 |
| 1945 | #3188 | 6 | ▼ down 514 · -33% births |
| 1935 | #2674 | 9 | ▲ up 64 · -10% births |
| 1930 | #2738 | 10 | ▼ down 444 · -29% births |
| 1925 | #2294 | 14 | ▲ up 284 · +17% births |
| 1920 | #2578 | 12 | ▲ up 1489 · +140% births |
| 1915 | #4067 | 5 | — |
The story of Cliford
Cliford entered American naming records in 1914 and has been in use for over 110 years. With 286 total births recorded, Cliford remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4067 in 1915 to #715 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Cliford in 1925:
Cliford by decade
Cliford peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 36 | |
| 1920s ★ | 103 | |
| 1930s | 72 | |
| 1940s | 29 | |
| 1950s | 12 | |
| 1960s | 17 | |
| 1970s | 12 | |
| 1980s | 5 | |
💎Cliford has only 286 total recorded births since 1914 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Cliford?
Common
CliClifClifieClifyIford
What names sound and feel like Cliford?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cliford also consider these
Common questions about the name Cliford
What does the name Cliford mean?
Cliford means "ford by a cliff" — a name rooted in English 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 Cliford?
Cliford is currently ranked #715 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 Cliford?
Cliford originates from English tradition. English 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 Cliford?
Cliford is a two-syllable name pronounced K L IH1 F AO1 R D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What are good nicknames for Cliford?
Cliford 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.