Clive is a unique and distinctive male given name of Welsh origin. It is derived from the Welsh word "claf," which means "step" or "ridge." The name Clive is often associated with the surname of the famous British general, Robert Clive, who played a significant role in establishing British rule in India during the 18th century.
The name Clive gained popularity in the English-speaking world after General Clive's victorious battles against the French and Indian forces at the Battle of Plassey in 1757. The general became known as "Clive of India," and his accomplishments contributed to the spread of the given name Clive among British families.
In Wales, where the name originated, it has been used for centuries as a first name and a surname. However, it was not until the 20th century that Clive started gaining popularity in other English-speaking countries such as the United States and Australia.
Today, Clive is considered an uncommon yet appealing name choice for boys. Its Welsh origin gives it a unique heritage, while its association with General Clive adds a touch of historical significance to the name. Parents who choose the name Clive for their sons often appreciate its distinctive sound and its connection to Welsh culture and British history.
In terms of popularity, Clive is not one of the most common names in English-speaking countries. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, the highest ranking year for Clive was 1926, when it reached a peak of #434 on the list of popular baby boy names. However, its usage has since declined, and it is now considered rare.
Overall, the name Clive offers parents an uncommon yet appealing choice for their sons, with a rich history rooted in Welsh culture and British history. Its distinctive sound and unique origin make it an attractive option for those looking for a name that is not too common but still has a significant background.
The given statistics show the annual number of births with the name Clive in the United States from 1885 to 2023.
From 1885 to around 1947, the popularity of the name Clive varied year by year but generally remained relatively low, with fewer than 40 births per year. The peak of this period was in 1930 with 50 births.
Starting from 1948, there was a noticeable decline in the number of babies named Clive until around 1962 when it reached its lowest point with only 6 births that year.
However, since then, the popularity of the name has steadily increased. From 1970 onwards, the annual number of babies named Clive consistently stayed above 10, with several peaks reaching over 50 births per year:
* 1991: 37 births
* 2006: 38 births
* 2007: 45 births
* 2008: 49 births
* 2009: 56 births
* 2010: 57 births
* 2012: 67 births
* 2014: 77 births
* 2015: 82 births
* 2016: 85 births
* 2017: 82 births
The most recent data from 2022 and 2023 show a slight decrease in popularity with 55 births each year.
In total, over the period of 1885 to 2023, there have been 3,206 babies named Clive born in the United States. This demonstrates that while the name's popularity has fluctuated over time, it has remained a recognizable and used name throughout history.