Clifton, of Latin origin, means "from the cliff town". It was initially used as a surname but has evolved into a given name over time. The name Clifton gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1950s and 1960s. It is often associated with notable figures such as American actors Clifton Webb (born William Dobson) and Clifton James (born Clinton Leroy Smith). The name Clifton carries a distinct vintage charm, often favored by those appreciative of classic and timeless monikers.
The name Clifton experienced varying popularity over the years, with birth numbers ranging from a low of 5 to a high of 13 per year. The peak periods for the name's usage appear to be around 1920-1923 and 1976-1979, while it was less common in the mid-20th century (1940s to early 1960s). In total, over a span of nearly seven decades from 1908 to 1988, Clifton was given to 436 newborn babies.