All about the name

Cletus

Female

« Cletus is a rare male name of Latin origin that means "stumbling" or "clumsy," though its true significance may be debated. It has religious importance due to Saint Cletus but is not widely used today. »

#16327 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Cletus is a unique and uncommon male given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "Cletius," which means "stumbling" or "clumsy." According to some sources, Cletus may also be associated with the biblical figure Saint Cletus, who was one of the first seven deacons of Rome and later became the fourth bishop of that city. The name Cletus was popular in early Christian times but has since become quite rare. In fact, according to data from the Social Security Administration, there have been fewer than five boys named Cletus born each year in the United States since 1950. Despite its rarity, Cletus remains a significant name in religious circles due to its association with Saint Cletus. While the meaning of "stumbling" or "clumsy" may not be particularly appealing, it is important to note that this interpretation is not universally accepted and may not accurately reflect the true origin or significance of the name. Ultimately, whether or not someone chooses to name their child Cletus will likely depend on personal preferences and family history rather than any particular connotation associated with the name. In conclusion, Cletus is a rare male given name of Latin origin that means "stumbling" or "clumsy." While it has religious significance due to its association with Saint Cletus, it has not been widely used in recent times. Despite its unusual meaning and rarity, Cletus remains an interesting and unique choice for parents looking for an uncommon name for their child.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Cletus since 1880

Total births
272
Total since 1880
Peak year
1918
16 births
in 1948
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years