Clara
Clara is a girl name of Latin origin meaning “Clear, bright, famous”, pronounced KLAIR-uh. It ranked #63 in the United States in 2025, given to 3,601 babies, and peaked at #7 in 1885. Common nicknames: Clari, Clare.
How popular is Clara in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Clara mean, and where does it come from?
Clara comes directly from the Latin adjective "clarus" meaning "clear, bright, or illustrious." The name gained widespread use in the Middle Ages thanks to Saint Clare of Assisi, who founded the Order of Poor Clares in 1212. Clara Schumann, one of the most distinguished pianists of the Romantic era, brought the name into the world of classical music. The name also holds a beloved place in holiday tradition as the heroine of Tchaikovsky's ballet The Nutcracker. Clara has enjoyed a strong revival in the 21st century, valued for its vintage charm and crisp elegance.
How is Clara used around the world?
Clara is used in 6 languages worldwide, with 7+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Clara?
Famous People Named Clara
- Clara Schumann — German pianist and composer
- Clara Barton — founder of the American Red Cross
- Clara Bow — American silent film actress
Similar Names to Clara
If you like Clara, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Clara
Looking for names that pair well with Clara? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Clara mean?
Clara is a girl name of Latin origin meaning "Clear, bright, famous." Clara comes directly from the Latin adjective "clarus" meaning "clear, bright, or illustrious." The name gained widespread use in the Middle Ages thanks to Saint Clare of Assisi, who founded the Order of Poor Clares in 1212.
How do you pronounce Clara?
Clara is pronounced KLAIR-uh. Common variations include Claire, Klara, Chiara.
Is Clara a girl name?
Yes, Clara is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Clari, Clare.