The name Clair is of French origin and means "clear" or "bright." It is derived from the Old French word "clair," which itself comes from the Latin word "clarus," meaning "famous, bright, clear."
The name Clair has a long history in France, dating back to at least the 12th century. In medieval France, it was often used as a given name for girls and boys alike. Over time, however, it became more commonly associated with female names.
Today, Clair is still used as a feminine given name in France and other French-speaking countries. It has also gained popularity in English-speaking countries, where it is sometimes spelled "Clare" or "Claire." Variations of the name include Clara, Clareen, Clairene, and Clairette.
Despite its popularity, Clair remains a relatively rare name, which can make it a unique choice for parents looking for something different. Its simple yet elegant meaning makes it a popular choice among those who prefer classic names with timeless appeal.
Based on these statistics, the name Clair appears to have had periods of popularity with a significant number of births recorded between 1914 and 1967, with peaks in 1914 (33 births), 1923 (49 births), and 1958 (40 births). However, there's a notable decline after the late 1960s, with fewer than 30 births recorded annually since then. The most recent data shows only 18 births in 2022, indicating that Clair is no longer one of the top choices for parents today.