Clara: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced KLAIR-uh · 2 syllables
Clara means “bright, clear”, from Latin.
Learned borrowing from Latin clara, feminine of clarus (“bright, shining, clear”), a post-classical name made famous by the 13th century Saint Clara (Clare) of Assisi. Doublet of Clare and Claire.
- Meaning
- bright, clear
- Origin
- Latin
- Pronunciation
- KLAIR-uh
- US rank (2025)
- #63
- US babies a year
- about 2,916 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 1890
- Style
- Vintage, Comeback
How popular is Clara?
Clara was the #63 name in the US in 2025, given to 3,601 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 1890.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #63 |
| England & Wales | #90 |
| Scotland | #143 |
| Northern Ireland | #36 |
| Ireland | #74 |
| France | #98 |
| Norway | #121 |
| Canada | #15 |
| Australia | #101 |
How old are people named Clara?
Half of US adults named Clara are older than 63; most are between 19 and 90. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Sibling names for Clara
Names that real brothers and sisters of people named Clara have, from family records on Wikidata, most common first.
- Zosia
- Tyra
- Margarida
Names like Clara
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
Questions about Clara
What does the name Clara mean?
Clara means “bright, clear”. It comes from Latin.
How do you pronounce Clara?
Clara is pronounced KLAIR-uh.
How popular is the name Clara?
Clara was the #63 name in the US in 2025, given to 3,601 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 1890.
How old are people named Clara?
Half of US adults named Clara are older than 63. Most are between 19 and 90.