Meaning, origin, history
Clinton is a surname of English origin that has been used as a given name in recent times. It is derived from the Middle English word "cliton," which means "from the settlement on the hill." The name has also been associated with the French place name "Clitoun," which translates to "from the settlement on the hill."
The surname Clinton was brought to England by Norman settlers after the Norman Conquest in 1066. It became widespread during the Middle Ages, and many families with this name have traced their lineage back to these early times.
In the United States, the name Clinton gained prominence in the mid-20th century due to the popularity of former President Bill Clinton. Born William Jefferson Blythe III, he adopted his mother's maiden name Clinton after his father died before his birth. He went on to become the 42nd President of the United States from 1993 to 2001.
Today, Clinton is still predominantly a surname but has been used as a given name for both boys and girls in recent years. Despite its history and prominent figures, the meaning behind the name Clinton remains relatively simple and straightforward: it is a name that signifies origin and heritage, whether from a hilltop settlement or a family line stretching back centuries.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Clinton since 1880
Total births
97,387
Total since 1880
Peak year
1981
2,206 births
in 2023
102
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-22%
↘
vs previous 5 years