Meaning and Origin of: Claire

Girl name origins & meanings

• Latin : Bright

What does Claire mean and stand for?

The name Claire is of French origin and means "bright or clear". Traditionally a boys name, Claire is now used almost exclusively for girls.

Syllables: 1

Girl name variations

Family name origins & meanings

• English and Irish : variant spelling of Clare.
• French : from the female personal name Claire (feminine form of Clair), which was popularized through the fame of St. Clare of Assisi (see Chiara).

Famous people with this first name

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Popularity

According to Social Security Administration data, Claire has been consistently popular, falling slightly from the top 50, which it had been in since 2011. It has been in the top 100 since 2000.

However, it is the 33rd most popular name on FamilyEducation.com.

According to Google search data analysis, in the last five years Isabella was at its peak popularity in October 2018.

Claire is the French spelling that has gained popularity across the globe. In medieval times, Saint Clare of Assisi, who later became the patron saint of television, was one of the most well-known Claires. Other notable Claires include writer Clare Booth Luce, silent screen siren Clara Bow, and actresses Claire Bloom and Claire Danes. Fictional characters with the name have appeared in the movie The Breakfast Club, the novel Passing, and series House of Cards, Lost, Six Feet Under, Modern Family, and Outlander.

Where is it Popular?

Claire was searched for most often in the following states:

Nicknames for Claire

• Clara
• Clary
• Clea
• Lear

Pairs well with these middle names