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 has had a varying degree of popularity in the United States over the past century and a half. Between 1882 and 1919, there were significant fluctuations in the number of babies named Cleve each year. The highest point during this period was in 1916 with 62 births, while the lowest was in 1882 with only 13 births.
From 1920 to 1946, the name Cleve maintained a relatively stable popularity, with an average of about 50 births per year. However, starting from 1947 until present day (2013), there has been a significant decline in the number of babies named Cleve each year. The highest point during this period was in 1947 with 80 births, and the lowest was in recent years, with only 5 births per year between 2003 and 2013.
Overall, since 1882 until present day (2013), there have been a total of 4506 babies named Cleve born in the United States. Despite its decline in popularity in recent years, the name Cleve still holds historical significance as it was once quite common in certain periods.