Clyde is a name of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "Clyda," which means "from the river." The River Clyde is one of Scotland's longest rivers and flows through Glasgow, Scotland's largest city. This river has been an important source of water power for industry in the area since medieval times.
The name Clyde was initially used as a surname, but it began to be used as a given name in the 19th century. It became more popular during the Victorian era and continued to gain popularity throughout the 20th century. Today, Clyde is still considered a unique yet classic choice for boys' names.
Some notable individuals with the name Clyde include Clyde Tombaugh, the American astronomer who discovered Pluto; Clyde Lee Powell, an American businessman and philanthropist; and Clyde McPhatter, an influential rhythm and blues singer from the 1950s.
Overall, Clyde is a distinctive and historic name that pays homage to Scotland's rich heritage. Its meaning, "from the river," signifies strength, resilience, and adaptability - qualities often associated with those who bear this name. Despite its Scottish origins, Clyde has been embraced by families around the world, making it a truly global choice for baby boys' names.
The name Clyde has had a varied history of popularity in the United States over the past century and a half. In the late 19th century, it was quite popular, with over 200 births per year between 1880 and 1899. The peak of this period was reached in 1907, with 507 births.
However, popularity began to decline in the early 20th century, reaching a low point in the mid-1930s, with fewer than 2,000 births per year between 1934 and 1941. This trend continued until the late 1960s, when the number of Clyde births dropped below 500 per year.
Despite this decline in popularity, the name Clyde has maintained a steady presence among newborns in the United States. Since the 1970s, it has consistently been given to between 200 and 400 babies each year, with a notable spike in recent years, reaching over 350 births in both 2021 and 2022.
In total, since records began in the late 19th century until 2022, there have been over 144,000 babies named Clyde born in the United States. While its popularity has fluctuated significantly over time, it remains a recognizable and enduring name choice for parents.