Clarice is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It comes from the Roman family name Clarus, which means "clear" or "bright." The name has been used in various forms throughout history, but it became particularly popular during the Middle Ages in England and France.
In medieval times, Clarice was often associated with nobility and royalty. Several members of European royal families bore this name, including Clarice Orsini, who married Ferdinand I, Duke of Naples, and Clarice Neville, who married Richard Plantagenet, 3rd Earl of Salisbury. This association with the aristocracy may have contributed to the popularity of the name during this period.
The name Clarice has also been used in literature and popular culture. One notable example is Clarice Starling, the protagonist of Thomas Harris' novel "The Silence of the Lambs" and the subsequent film adaptation. The character's name may have influenced a resurgence in popularity for the name Clarice in recent decades.
Today, Clarice remains a relatively uncommon but distinctive given name for girls. Its Latin origins give it a classic and elegant feel, while its association with notable historical figures and fictional characters makes it a memorable choice. Whether you're looking for a unique name with a rich history or simply appreciate the meaning "clear" or "bright," Clarice may be an excellent option to consider.
The name Clarice has been given to babies born in the United States for over a century. From 1880 to 2023, there have been a total of 25,360 births registered with this name.
The popularity of the name Clarice varied greatly throughout different decades. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was relatively uncommon, with fewer than 10 births per year from 1880 to 1904. However, its usage began to increase significantly in the following years.
By the 1910s, Clarice started gaining traction, with over 182 births recorded in 1910 and peaking at 548 births in 1918. This trend continued into the 1920s, with the highest number of births recorded being 594 in 1925.
The mid-20th century saw a decline in popularity for the name Clarice. From the 1930s to the 1960s, the number of births fell significantly, reaching its lowest point with only 60 births recorded in 1974.
There was a brief resurgence in the late 1970s and early 1980s, with over 100 births recorded annually between 1975 and 1982. However, this popularity was short-lived, as the numbers fell again throughout the remainder of the century.
In recent years, the name Clarice has seen renewed interest. After a low point of only 24 births in 2023, there were over 30 births recorded annually between 2016 and 2021, indicating that the name may be experiencing a new wave of popularity.
Overall, while Clarice has not consistently been one of the most popular names in the United States throughout history, its usage has shown several peaks and valleys over time. Its current popularity remains to be seen, as data from more recent years becomes available.