Clarence is a name of English origin that has been used for both boys and girls throughout history. The name means "clear" or "bright," which can be associated with ideas of clarity, brightness, or light. Clarence comes from the Middle English word "clarens," which was derived from the Old French word "clair," meaning "clear" or "bright."
The name Clarence has a long and storied history in England. It was first used as a given name during the Middle Ages, when it was often bestowed upon boys who were born with fair hair or complexion. Over time, the name became more popular and was eventually adopted by families from all walks of life.
One notable figure associated with the name Clarence is King Richard III of England (1452-1485). Although he did not have the name himself, his younger brother was named Clarence and served as Duke of Clarence before his death in battle in 1471. This connection has helped to popularize the name Clarence throughout history.
Today, Clarence is still used as a given name for both boys and girls, although it is perhaps more commonly associated with males. It remains a distinctive and memorable choice that evokes images of brightness and clarity. Whether you're looking for a name that means "clear" or simply one that has a rich historical legacy, Clarence is certainly worth considering.
The name Clarence has seen a consistent presence among newborns in the United States over two decades, with five babies being named Clarence each year in 1963, 1971, and 1973 respectively. This indicates that the name Clarence maintained a steady popularity during this period. In total, over these three years, there were fifteen births with the name Clarence.