Clyde: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced KLYDE · 1 syllable
Clyde means “the cleansing one”, from Scottish.
From Scottish Gaelic Cluaidh, the name of a river in Scotland, of uncertain origin. Possibly influenced by clut (“the cleansing one”).
- Meaning
- the cleansing one
- Origin
- Scottish
- Pronunciation
- KLYDE
- US rank (2025)
- #742
- US babies a year
- about 365 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 1910
- Style
- Vintage, Comeback, Rising
How popular is Clyde?
Clyde was the #742 name in the US in 2025, given to 350 babies. It’s rising: up 69% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 1910.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #742 |
| Scotland | #711 |
| Canada | #883 |
| Australia | #600 |
How old are people named Clyde?
Half of US adults named Clyde are older than 70; most are between 34 and 89. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Clyde
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
- Boyd
- Claude
- Virgil
- Luther
- Wallace
- Homer
- Myra
On these lists
Questions about Clyde
What does the name Clyde mean?
Clyde means “the cleansing one”. It comes from Scottish.
How do you pronounce Clyde?
Clyde is pronounced KLYDE.
How popular is the name Clyde?
Clyde was the #742 name in the US in 2025, given to 350 babies. It’s rising: up 69% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 1910.
How old are people named Clyde?
Half of US adults named Clyde are older than 70. Most are between 34 and 89.