What does Clio mean and where does it come from?
Clio (Κλειώ) is of Greek origin and is derived from the word for 'glory' or 'fame'. In mythology, Clio was the Muse of history, representing the storyteller aspect of historical events. The name was first documented in ancient Greece, and it is popular among parents who appreciate classical heritage
Cultural significance
Clio has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of glory.
Peak popularity
Reached #1518 in 1906 — currently #619 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Clio?
Clio works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Clio Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Clio Rose
Floral · soft ending
Clio Claire
French influence · crisp
Clio Jane
Literary · strong
Clio Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Clio right now?
Holding steady — currently #619 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #619 | 1,581 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #624 | 1,561 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #629 | 1,531 | ▲ up 4653 · +6557% births |
| 2020 | #5282 | 23 | ▼ down 1288 · -38% births |
| 2015 | #3994 | 37 | ▲ up 2932 · +106% births |
| 2010 | #6926 | 18 | ▼ down 1113 · -14% births |
| 2005 | #5813 | 21 | ▲ up 148 · +17% births |
| 2000 | #5961 | 18 | ▲ up 4616 · +157% births |
| 1995 | #10577 | 7 | ▲ up 894 · +17% births |
| 1990 | #11471 | 6 | ▼ down 6958 |
| 1925 | #4513 | 6 | ▼ down 1539 · -45% births |
| 1920 | #2974 | 11 | ▼ down 209 · +10% births |
| 1915 | #2765 | 10 | ▼ down 669 · +100% births |
| 1905 | #2096 | 5 | ▼ down 9 |
| 1900 | #2087 | 5 | — |
The story of Clio
Clio has been a beloved American name for over 130 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1894. With 742 total births recorded, Clio remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2087 in 1900 to #619 in 2023. Clio is used for both genders: 97% female and 3% male.
Names that peaked alongside Clio in 1906:
Clio by decade
Clio peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 10 | |
| 1900s | 28 | |
| 1910s | 91 | |
| 1920s | 58 | |
| 1930s | 25 | |
| 1940s | 6 | |
| 1980s | 11 | |
| 1990s | 80 | |
| 2000s | 156 | |
| 2010s ★ | 254 | |
| 2020s | 23 | |
💎Clio has only 742 total recorded births since 1894 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Clio?
What names sound and feel like Clio?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Clio also consider these
How is Clio written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Clio
What does the name Clio mean?
Clio means "glory" — 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 Clio?
Clio is currently ranked #619 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 Clio?
Clio 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.
How does Clio sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Clio flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Clio ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is Clio more of a girl or boy name?
Clio is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.