Clarence – Name Meaning

The name Clarence is of Latin origin and means “bright” or “clear.” It is a popular name in the United States, ranking in the top 500 names for boys since 1880. The name has been used by several notable figures throughout history, including two kings of England.

Origin and History

The name Clarence is derived from the Latin word “clarus,” which means “bright” or “clear.” It was first used as a given name in the Middle Ages, when it was popular among royalty and nobility. The name was also used by two kings of England: Edward IV (1461-1483) and George VI (1936-1952).

In the United States, the name became popular in the late 19th century and has remained so ever since. It has been consistently ranked in the top 500 names for boys since 1880. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular among African American families.

Popularity

Clarence is currently ranked as the 437th most popular name for boys in the United States. It is particularly popular in Louisiana, where it ranks as the 24th most common name for boys. It is also popular in Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, and South Carolina.

Famous People Named Clarence

There have been several famous people named Clarence throughout history, including:

  • Clarence Darrow (1857-1938), an American lawyer who defended John Scopes in the famous “Monkey Trial” of 1925.
  • Clarence Thomas (born 1948), an American Supreme Court Justice.
  • Clarence Clemons (1942-2011), an American saxophonist best known for his work with Bruce Springsteen.
  • Clarence Birdseye (1886-1956), an American inventor who developed a method of freezing food that revolutionized the food industry.

By Ava Isabella Hartley

Ava Isabella Hartley is a renowned expert in the field of onomastics, the study of names and their meanings, with a particular focus on baby names. She holds a Master's degree in Linguistics from the University of Cambridge and has over 15 years of experience in the study of etymology, name trends, and cultural naming practices.

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