Holding steady.
Popularity of Claud since 1880
Babies named Claud per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1919, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Claud's real moment was 1885.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 881 |
| 1890s | 827 |
| 1900s | 811 |
| 1910s | 2,205 |
| 1920s | 2,726 |
| 1930s | 1,394 |
| 1940s | 947 |
| 1950s | 581 |
| 1960s | 272 |
| 1970s | 135 |
| 1980s | 68 |
| 1990s | 41 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 5 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Claud is a rare masculine name derived from the Roman family name Claudius, ultimately from the Latin "claudus" meaning "lame." Despite its ancient pedigree, the name has largely fallen out of use. According to Social Security Administration data, it peaked in 1885 at a rank of 1,440, and has had no recorded births for any year since the early 20th century. The name's trajectory is stable in its absence, with no signs of revival. Historically associated with states like New York and Pennsylvania, Claud now survives primarily as a historical or literary reference. Its similarity to the more familiar Claude has likely contributed to its decline, as Claude itself is now uncommon. For parents seeking a truly distinctive name with Roman roots, Claud offers a concise, vintage option, though its meaning may give some pause.
Claud is a short form of Claudius, a Roman family name derived from the Latin "claudus" meaning "lame" or "limping." The name was borne by several early saints and a Roman emperor, but its use in English-speaking countries declined sharply after the early 20th century.
Where Claud is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Claud
Names that share Claud's style, for a brother or sister.
