Clarity is derived from the Latin word 'clarus', meaning 'clear, bright'. The name has been used historically as a given name for women and men alike, although it's more commonly found today as a female name.
The name Clary gained popularity in the late 19th century, likely influenced by the works of Sir Walter Scott. In his novel 'Ivanhoe', he introduced the character Rebecca, whose full name was Rebecca Claridge, often shortened to Clara or Clary.
Clary has also been used as a surname throughout history, with early records showing it being prevalent in England and Scotland during the medieval period.
In literature, apart from Sir Walter Scott's works, the name Clary appears in various forms in other notable works such as "The Song of Hiawatha" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and "Les Misérables" by Victor Hugo.
Today, Clary remains a unique and distinctive name choice, often favored for its simplicity and modern sound while still holding historical roots. It's a unisex name that can be used for both girls and boys, making it an appealing option for parents seeking something different.
The name Clary peaked in popularity during World War II, with a significant jump to 15 births in 1943. Before and after this period, the number of births with the name Clary fluctuated between 5 and 9 per year.