All about the name
Clearence
Male
« Clarence is an English name derived from Latin 'clarus', meaning 'clear' or 'bright'. Originally a surname for someone living near a clear stream or possessing a cheerful disposition, it evolved into a given name popular among royal families and has since been associated with notable figures like King Henry VIII's brother. »
#3969
since 1900
Meaning, origin, history
Clarence is a name of English origin that has been used for centuries. It comes from the Latin word "clarus," which means "clear" or "bright." The name Clarence was first used as a surname, referring to someone who lived near a clear stream or had a bright and cheerful disposition.
Over time, Clarence became a popular given name in England, particularly among families with ties to royalty. One of the most notable bearers of this name was King Henry VIII's younger brother, Clarence. He was known for his brave military exploits and played an important role in the Wars of the Roses during the 15th century.
The name Clarence also has a strong association with the American South due to its use among prominent Southern families throughout history. One famous example is Clarence Darrow, the renowned lawyer and civil rights activist who represented the defense in the Scopes Monkey Trial in 1925.
Today, Clarence remains a classic yet distinctive name choice for boys. While it may not be as commonly used as some other names with similar meanings such as Clifford or Clifford, those who bear this name can take pride in its rich history and unique heritage. Whether they are named after the brave military figure, the civil rights activist, or simply have parents who appreciated the meaning of clarity and brightness behind the name, every person named Clarence carries a piece of history with them wherever they go.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Clearence since 1880
Total births
1,427
Total since 1880
Peak year
1927
58 births
in 1986
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years