Clara

♀ Girl

Pronounced KLAIR-uh /ˈklɛr.ə/High

Meaning: Bright; clear; famous — from Latin clarus (clear, bright, famous)High

In 30 seconds: A radiant Latin classic meaning 'bright and clear,' Clara is the original form of Claire. With its pure two syllables and universal appeal, it has been one of the most beloved women's names for centuries.

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Origin HighLatin

MeaningBright; clear; famous — from Latin clarus (clear, bright, famous)

Peak year1918

Total births (all-time)≈ 277,227

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Clara derives from the Latin clarus, meaning 'clear, bright, or famous.' Saint Clare of Assisi (Chiara in Italian), founder of the Poor Clares, bore this name in its Italian form, spreading it throughout Christendom.

Clara was extremely popular in Victorian England and America, fell somewhat mid-century, and has staged a strong vintage revival in the 21st century. It is now firmly in the U.S. top 100 girls' names.

Did you know? Clara Schumann (1819–1896) was one of the most celebrated pianists of the Romantic era and a pioneering female concert performer — her image appeared on the West German 100 Deutsche Mark note.

Variations

ClaireClareKlaraChiara

Nicknames

ClaryClar

Famous Bearers

★Clara Schumann (1819–1896)
German pianist and composer, one of the most celebrated musicians of the Romantic era.
★Clara Barton (1821–1912)
American humanitarian and founder of the American Red Cross.

If you like Clara…

Alice— short Old French–Latin classic with the same crisp vintage revival appeal

Cora— two-syllable Greek vintage name with the same clean, bright simplicity

Eleanor— vintage classic with the same refined timeless femininity

Nora— crisp short classic with the same quiet elegant strength

Frequently Asked

What does the name Clara mean?

Clara comes from the Latin clarus, meaning 'bright,' 'clear,' or 'famous.'

How do you pronounce Clara?

It is said KLAIR-uh /ˈklɛr.ə/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Clara a boy or girl name?

Clara is used almost exclusively as a girl's name.

How popular is Clara?

Clara has been climbing the U.S. charts strongly and is now among the top 100 girls' names.