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Clair
Pronounced KLAIR /ˈklɛr/High
Meaning: Spelling of Claire — from Latin clarus, 'clear, bright, famous'High
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Clair is a spelling of Claire — from Latin clarus, 'clear, bright, famous' (St Clare of Assisi). A crisp, elegant, timeless name; the -e-less spelling personalizes it (it's also a French masculine form).
It registers thinly beside Claire. Rare, clear-and-bright at the root, and elegant.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Clair mean?
Clair spells Claire — Latin 'clear, bright, famous'.
How do you pronounce Clair?
It's said KLAIR /ˈklɛr/ — a single syllable.
Is Clair a boy or girl name?
Clair is mainly a girl's name (Claire); a French masculine form exists.
How popular is Clair?
Clair is a rare spelling in the U.S.; Claire is more common.