What does Klara mean and where does it come from?
Klara is a feminine given name derived from the Latin word 'clarus', meaning bright or clear. The name has been used since the Middle Ages and saw a surge in popularity in Europe during the 19th century. Notable bearers of the name include Saint Clara of Assisi, the founder of the Poor Clares monast
Cultural significance
Klara has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Czech Republic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bright, clear.
Peak popularity
Reached #1142 in 1884 — currently #1828 in the US.
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Related Reading
Czech Republic-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Klara?
Klara works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Klara Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Klara Rose
Floral · soft ending
Klara Mae
Sweet · timeless
Klara Claire
French influence · crisp
Klara Jane
Literary · strong
Klara Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Klara right now?
Falling — down 264 spots — currently #1828 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1828 | 110 | ▼ down 264 · -19% births |
| 2022 | #1564 | 136 | ▲ up 315 · +28% births |
| 2021 | #1879 | 106 | ▼ down 109 · -5% births |
| 2020 | #1770 | 111 | ▲ up 60 · -2% births |
| 2015 | #1830 | 113 | ▲ up 229 · +18% births |
| 2010 | #2059 | 96 | ▲ up 446 · +39% births |
| 2005 | #2505 | 69 | ▲ up 622 · +57% births |
| 2000 | #3127 | 44 | ▲ up 985 · +76% births |
| 1995 | #4112 | 25 | ▲ up 767 · +32% births |
| 1990 | #4879 | 19 | ▼ down 10 · +27% births |
| 1985 | #4869 | 15 | ▲ up 3349 · +114% births |
| 1980 | #8218 | 7 | ▼ down 1765 · +40% births |
| 1960 | #6453 | 5 | ▼ down 2654 · -17% births |
| 1935 | #3799 | 6 | ▲ up 272 · -14% births |
| 1925 | #4071 | 7 | — |
The story of Klara
Klara has been a beloved American name for over 140 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1884. With 2,506 total births recorded, Klara remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2936 in 1915 to #1828 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Klara in 1884:
Klara by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 49 | |
| 1920s | 64 | |
| 1930s | 24 | |
| 1940s | 20 | |
| 1950s | 11 | |
| 1960s | 30 | |
| 1970s | 31 | |
| 1980s | 109 | |
| 1990s | 245 | |
| 2000s | 647 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,160 | |
| 2020s | 111 | |
💎With 2,506 total births, Klara is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Klara?
What names sound and feel like Klara?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Klara also consider these
How is Klara written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Klara?
Common questions about the name Klara
What does the name Klara mean?
Klara means "bright, clear" — a name rooted in Czech Republic 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 Klara?
Klara is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Klara?
Klara originates from Czech Republic tradition. Czech Republic names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Klara a common or rare name?
Klara is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Klara?
Klara 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.