All about the name

Clifton

Female

« Clifton is an English name derived from Old English 'clif' meaning 'hill', translating to 'from the hill settlement'. »

#12547 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Clifton is a name of English origin that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is derived from the Old English word "clif" which means "slope" or "hill". The name Clifton therefore translates to "from the hill settlement". The earliest known use of the name Clifton can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period, around the 8th century AD. During this time, many places in England were named after their geographical features, and it is believed that a town or settlement located on a hill was given the name Clifton. Over time, the name Clifton has evolved from being purely geographical to having more of a personal connotation. In the Middle Ages, it became a surname for people who lived near a cliff or hill, and eventually, it started being used as a given name as well. Today, Clifton is often associated with the American city of Cincinnati, Ohio, which has a neighborhood called Clifton. However, despite its geographical roots, the name Clifton has become more widely recognized as a personal name in recent years, particularly among parents looking for unique and meaningful names for their children. In conclusion, Clifton is an English name with a rich history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period. Its meaning, "from the hill settlement," adds a sense of strength and stability to the name, making it a great choice for those seeking a distinctive yet meaningful moniker.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Clifton since 1880

Total births
436
Total since 1880
Peak year
1970
13 births
in 1988
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years