Claire is a feminine given name of French origin. It is derived from the French word "clair," which means "clear" or "bright." The name has been popular in France for centuries and has since gained international recognition.
The earliest known use of the name Claire can be traced back to medieval France, where it was often used as a diminutive of names such as Clara or Clarisse. However, it wasn't until the 16th century that Claire began to be used as an independent given name in its own right.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Claire. One of the most famous is Saint Claire of Assisi (c. 1194-1253), also known as Clare Offreduccio, who founded the Order of Poor Ladies alongside Saint Francis of Assisi. Her influence helped to popularize the name Claire in Italy and beyond.
In literature, the name Claire has been used by several authors, including French novelist Honoré de Balzac, who named one of his characters Claire Simon in "Père Goriot." Meanwhile, in English literature, Charlotte Brontë's semi-autobiographical novel "Jane Eyre" features a character named Claire, the younger sister of the protagonist.
Today, Claire remains a popular choice for parents seeking a classic yet timeless name for their daughters. Its meaning and origin continue to inspire, with many choosing it for its simplicity and beauty. Whether spelling it with an "i" or an "ie," those who bear the name Claire carry with them a rich history and a bright legacy.
The name Claire has been popular among parents in the United States for over a century, with its peak popularity occurring around the early 20th century. Between 1885 and 1969, there were at least five births per year with the name Claire, with some years seeing up to 75 births.
The highest number of births with the name Claire occurred in 1912 and 1913, with 28 and 36 births respectively. This was followed by a period of decline in popularity, with fewer than 30 births per year occurring between 1924 and 1954.
However, the name Claire experienced a resurgence in popularity during the late 20th century. Between 1985 and 2021, there were at least five births with the name Claire each year, with some years seeing up to 20 births. The most recent data shows that there were five births with the name Claire in both 2017 and 2021.
Overall, since 1885, there have been a total of 2204 births with the name Claire in the United States. This demonstrates that while its popularity has fluctuated over time, Claire remains a beloved name among American parents.