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Claire
Pronounced KLAIR /klΙr/High
Meaning: Bright; clear; illustriousHigh
Popularity in the U.S. Β· SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880βpresent). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Claire is the French form of the Latin Clara, from clarus, meaning 'clear, bright, or famous.' The name spread throughout Europe through devotion to Saint Clare of Assisi in the 13th century.
The French spelling Claire became the preferred form in the English-speaking world from the 20th century onward, distinguishing it from the plainer Clare. It has been a steady presence in the U.S. top 100 girls' names since the 1990s.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- β
Clare of Assisi (1194β1253)Italian saint who founded the Order of Poor Ladies alongside St Francis of Assisi.
- β
Claire Danes (1979β)American actress known for My So-Called Life and Homeland.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Claire mean?
Claire is the French form of the Latin Clara, meaning 'bright,' 'clear,' or 'illustrious.'
How do you pronounce Claire?
It is said KLAIR /klΙr/ β one syllable.
Is Claire a boy or girl name?
Claire is used almost exclusively as a girl's name.
How popular is Claire?
Claire has been a top-100 U.S. girls' name since the 1990s and remains consistently popular.