Cleta

Meaning & origin

Cleta is a rare feminine name that enjoyed its greatest popularity in the early 20th century, reaching a peak in 1935. The name first appeared on U.S. birth records in 1885, and while it has since declined to very low usage, its trajectory has remained stable in recent years. Cleta is most likely a feminine form of Cletus, which itself has roots in Greek and early Christian history. Though the name has no recorded top states or recent rankings, its vintage charm appeals to those seeking a distinctive name from the 1930s era. With a sound reminiscent of other diminutive names like Leta or Cleo, Cleta offers a simple yet uncommon choice for a girl.

Cleta is likely a feminine form of Cletus, a Latinized variant of the Greek name Kleitos, derived from 'kletos' meaning 'called' or 'summoned'. The name appears in early Christian contexts, notably as a variant of Anacletus, a pope from the 1st century. In English-speaking countries, Cleta saw modest use in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, peaking in the 1930s.