Clarke
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Clarke
Clarke, which has 6 letters and 1 syllable, is a male name of French origin.
Meaning of Clarke
From the name clark
The name Clarke is of English origin and is derived from an occupational surname meaning “cleric” or “scribe”. The name is often given to a person who is a scholar or a teacher.
| Meaning | From the name clark |
| Origin | French |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #974 in 1955 Declining |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1900s) |
Background & History of The Name Clarke
The name 'Clarke' originated from England and is derived from the medieval given name 'Clark'. It was originally an occupational name for a scribe or a clergyman, deriving from the Latin word 'clericus', meaning a literate person or a member of the clergy. The name 'Clarke' is primarily found in the English-speaking world, particularly in countries such as England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, the United States, Canada, and Australia.
The surname 'Clarke' has several variations, including 'Clark', 'Clerk', and 'Clerke'. These variations may have stemmed from regional dialects or different spelling conventions over time. The usage of 'Clarke' as a surname can be traced back to the 12th century in England, making it a rather old and well-established name.
Throughout history, individuals with the surname 'Clarke' have made notable contributions in various fields. In literature, Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, better known by his pen name Lewis Carroll, was an English author renowned for his imaginative works such as 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' and 'Through the Looking-Glass'. In science, Arthur C. Clarke, a British author, scientist, and futurist, achieved great acclaim for his works in science fiction, including the novel '2001: A Space Odyssey', which was later adapted into a movie.
Today, the name 'Clarke' continues to be commonly used, and individuals with this surname can be found in diverse professions and industries. The name carries a sense of history and tradition due to its long-standing presence. It conveys both scholarly and clerical connotations, reflecting its origins as an occupational surname associated with literacy and the clergy. Overall, the name 'Clarke' holds a rich heritage within the English-speaking world and is still widely recognized and utilized today.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Clarke over the years.
Similar French Baby Names
Check Initials
See what initials Clarke would create with your last name.
Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Clarke.
Save This Name
Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.
Create Free Account