Declining since 1985, #1,728 for boys today.
Popularity of Clinton since 1880
Babies named Clinton per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 867 |
| 1890s | 857 |
| 1900s | 1,122 |
| 1910s | 5,302 |
| 1920s | 8,443 |
| 1930s | 6,708 |
| 1940s | 7,706 |
| 1950s | 9,324 |
| 1960s | 10,268 |
| 1970s | 16,346 |
| 1980s | 17,533 |
| 1990s | 7,930 |
| 2000s | 2,585 |
| 2010s | 1,912 |
| 2020s | 664 |
Meaning & origin
Clinton is an English surname-turned-first name that has seen fluctuating popularity over the decades. Historically, it peaked in 1981, likely influenced by the prominence of the Clinton political family; however, since 1985, its usage has steadily declined. As of the latest year, it ranks 1728th, with approximately 1 in every 18,171 boys receiving the name. Its highest frequency is found in states such as Virginia, North Carolina, and Illinois, reflecting a distribution across the American South and Midwest. While never among the most common names, Clinton has maintained a consistent presence since being recorded as early as 1880, making it a recognizable but less frequently chosen option.
Clinton originates as an English surname derived from place names meaning 'farmstead on a hill' or 'settlement on a hill', from Old English 'clif' (cliff, hill) and 'tun' (enclosure, settlement). The name was brought to prominence by the Clinton family, English aristocrats, and later adopted as a given name. It gained wide usage in the United States, particularly in the 20th century.
Where Clinton 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
Nicknames: Clint
Variants: Clint
Sibling names for Clinton
Names that share Clinton's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Clinton
Names whose popularity has moved with Clinton's over the last 50 years.
