The name Cleve is of English origin and has a unique history behind it. It is believed to have been derived from the Old English word "clif," which means "slope" or "bank." This word was often used to describe land that bordered a river or body of water.
The name Cleve first appeared in England during the Middle Ages, where it was used as a given name for boys. It is thought to have been popular among families who lived near rivers or had connections to the maritime industry. The name was also sometimes associated with the city of Cleveland, which takes its name from the same Old English word.
Over time, Cleve has become more commonly used as a surname rather than a given name in England. However, it is still considered a rare and unique given name for boys. In some cases, Cleve may also be used as a short form of longer names such as Clifford or Cleaver, which share the same Old English root meaning "slope" or "bank."
Overall, the name Cleve has an interesting history rooted in the geography and culture of medieval England. Its unique origin and uncommon usage make it a distinctive choice for parents looking for a rare and meaningful name for their child.
The name Cleve experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a total of 4506 babies given this name from 1882 to 2013. The highest number of births occurred in 1947 and 1954, both years with 80 births each. Conversely, there were periods where Cleve was scarcely chosen as a baby name, with the lowest numbers of births occurring between 1997 and 2013, ranging from 5 to 9 births per year.