Clyde is a masculine given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish Gaelic word "Clyde," which means "the river." The River Clyde is a major river in Scotland, flowing into the Atlantic Ocean at Glasgow.
The name Clyde has been popular throughout history, with notable figures bearing this name including American baseball player Clyde Sukeforth and Australian rules footballer Clyde Larance. However, its popularity as a given name peaked in the United States during the early 20th century and has since declined.
Today, Clyde is still considered a classic and timeless name, often associated with its Scottish heritage and connection to the historic River Clyde. It may also evoke images of the iconic Clydebuilt ships that were once constructed along the river's banks. Although it is less common than it was in decades past, Clyde remains a strong and dignified name choice for parents looking for a traditional yet distinctive name for their son.
In terms of its meaning, Clyde simply refers to "the river," which can evoke feelings of fluidity, strength, and adaptability, as rivers are constantly changing shape while maintaining their essential nature. Additionally, the name Clyde may hold special significance for those with Scottish ancestry or who have a personal connection to the River Clyde.
Overall, Clyde is a classic and dignified masculine given name with a rich history rooted in Scotland's cultural heritage. Its simple yet meaningful origin makes it an appealing choice for parents seeking a traditional yet distinctive name for their son.
The name Clyde has been given to a total of 3932 babies in the United States over the period from 1880 to 1977. The number of births per year varied significantly during this time, with peaks and valleys in popularity.
In the early years, the name was relatively uncommon, with fewer than 20 births each year between 1880 and 1890. However, starting in 1891, there was a steady increase in the number of babies named Clyde, reaching a peak of 124 births in 1917.
The name remained popular throughout the early to mid-20th century, with over 50 births each year from 1920 to 1960. However, after this period, there was a significant decrease in popularity, with fewer than 10 births per year between 1963 and 1977.
Despite the fluctuations in popularity, Clyde has remained a timeless name, with a total of 3932 babies receiving this name over nearly a century. It is interesting to note that the name was particularly popular during the early 20th century, reaching its peak in popularity in 1917.