The name Clifton evokes a sense of strength and steadfastness. But how popular is the name Clifton and what does it mean? Let’s delve into the origins, popularity trends, and alternative names associated with this classic moniker.
The Allure of Clifton
Clifton is a boy’s name of English origin, directly derived from a place name meaning "town by the cliff" or "settlement on a cliff." The image conjured is one of resilience and a strong foundation. The "cliff" element suggests a connection to nature, a strong, prominent landmark offering protection and a commanding view. It’s a name that speaks to both groundedness and a certain elevation, both literally and figuratively.
Clifton Name Popularity Through the Years
Analyzing the popularity of Clifton provides fascinating insight into its usage over time. According to data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), Clifton’s popularity peaked in the mid-20th century, experiencing its golden era from the 1910s through the 1980s.
Here’s a glimpse at the historical trends:
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Early 20th Century Rise (1910-1940s): The name steadily gained traction, reaching impressive ranks within the top 200 names. For example, in 1915, Clifton ranked 149th with 775 births, representing 0.0853% of all male births that year. This era saw a consistent use, suggesting a name that resonated with the values of the time.
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Mid-Century Peak (1950s-1970s): Clifton maintained its popularity, although its rank began to fluctuate slightly. The name saw over 1,000 births in 1954, landing at rank 216. The highest rank was in 1975 at 187, when 1,184 babies were named Clifton.
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Late 20th Century Decline (1980s-2000s): From the 1980s onwards, Clifton began a gradual descent in popularity, mirroring a shift in naming trends towards more modern and unique choices. In 1990, the name had slipped to 466, with only 406 births.
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21st Century: A Rare Gem: In recent years, Clifton has become a less common choice, positioning it as a unique option for parents seeking a name with historical significance but not currently overused. In 2023, the name ranked 1,682 with 53 births, representing only 0.0041% of births. This rarity adds to its charm, allowing a child named Clifton to stand out.
A Detailed Look at the Data:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 172 | 137 | 0.0389% |
| 1950 | 201 | 977 | 0.0607% |
| 1975 | 187 | 1,184 | 0.0921% |
| 2000 | 712 | 194 | 0.0127% |
| 2023 | 1,682 | 53 | 0.0041% |
Regional Variations
The popularity of Clifton also varies by region. For example, in District of Columbia, the name Clifton has seen various amounts of use throughout the decades. It has had high counts of 24.
Names Like Clifton: Alternatives and Variations
If you appreciate the sound and feel of Clifton, several related names offer similar qualities:
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Diminutives:
- Cliff: A shorter, more casual version of Clifton.
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Variants:
- Cliffeton: Emphasizes the "town" aspect of the name.
- Clift: A streamlined and modern-sounding variant.
- Clyffeton, Clyffton, Clyfton: Spelling variations that retain the core sound.
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Similar Sounding Names:
- Clovito: A German name meaning "renowned fighter," sharing a similar sound.
Why Choose the Name Clifton?
Choosing a name is a deeply personal decision. Clifton offers a compelling blend of history, meaning, and relative uniqueness in the modern era. Its connection to nature and its strong, grounded imagery make it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with character and depth. While it may not be the most popular name today, its history and meaning provide a solid foundation for any child bearing the name.