A 1900s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Clive since 1885
Babies named Clive per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2016, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Clive's real moment was 1906.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 40 |
| 1900s | 35 |
| 1910s | 190 |
| 1920s | 270 |
| 1930s | 371 |
| 1940s | 265 |
| 1950s | 220 |
| 1960s | 142 |
| 1970s | 100 |
| 1980s | 155 |
| 1990s | 200 |
| 2000s | 289 |
| 2010s | 690 |
| 2020s | 364 |
Meaning & origin
Clive, meaning 'cliff' or 'slope', is a distinctly English name with a long history as both a surname and given name. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1885 and peaked in popularity in 1906. After a period of decline, it has been gently rising since 2002. The name carries a solid, understated quality, associated with historical figures like the 18th-century colonial administrator Robert Clive. While never extremely common, it has maintained consistent use, especially in states like Missouri, Tennessee, and California. Its classic sound and connection to English geography give it a quiet, sturdy appeal.
Clive originated as a surname and later a given name, from various places in England named Clive, derived from Old English 'clif' meaning 'cliff' or 'bank'. The name was popularized as a first name by Clive of India (Robert Clive), the 18th-century British soldier and colonial administrator. It gained moderate use in the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in English-speaking countries.
Where Clive is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Clive” around the world
Where Clive lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
Ireland
3
babies in 2025
Sources: CSO Ireland (Ireland).
Sibling names for Clive
Names that share Clive's style, for a brother or sister.
