Clara
Clara first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1918, when 5,778 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 3,601.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Clara popular?
Rising Clara has climbed over the past decade, given to more girls now than ten years ago.
| 2020s | 17,277 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 26,657 | |
| 2000s | 12,789 | |
| 1990s | 6,266 | |
| 1980s | 3,668 | |
| 1970s | 3,290 | |
| 1960s | 6,505 | |
| 1950s | 12,768 | |
| 1940s | 20,028 | |
| 1930s | 31,658 | |
| 1920s | 48,183 | |
| 1910s | 44,346 | |
| 1900s | 23,899 | |
| 1890s | 25,473 | |
| 1880s | 17,717 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Clara mean?
From the Latin clarus, “bright” or “clear.” Saint Clare of Assisi carried the name.
Names like Clara
Latin names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Clara
Popular Latin names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Clara
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Frequently asked questions
What does the name Clara mean?
Clara means Bright, clear. From the Latin clarus, “bright” or “clear.” Saint Clare of Assisi carried the name.
What is the origin of the name Clara?
Clara is of Latin origin.
How do you pronounce Clara?
Clara is pronounced “KLAIR-uh.”
Is Clara a boy or a girl name?
Clara is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Clara a popular name right now?
Clara has climbed over the past decade, given to more girls now than ten years ago.
How popular is the name Clara?
In 2025, Clara ranked #63 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Clara most popular?
Clara was most popular in 1918, when about 5,778 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Clara?
Names similar to Clara include Clare, Cora, Grace, Alice.
What names go well with Clara?
Latin names that pair well with Clara include Mark, Amanda, Emily, Olivia, Ava.