Clever is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English word 'clever', which means intelligent or clever. The name Clever was popular in medieval England, particularly among the nobility.
The name Clever has an interesting history dating back to the 13th century. It was borne by several notable figures throughout the centuries, including Sir Richard Cleverley, a prominent English politician and MP for Tamworth during the reign of King Henry VIII. Another notable figure named Clever is the American abolitionist and educator, Clever Robinson, who played a significant role in the underground railroad.
In literature, the name Clever has been used by several authors to create memorable characters. For instance, George Eliot's novel 'The Mill on the Floss' features a character named Clever, while in Thomas Hardy's 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles', there is a character named Clever Maid.
Today, Clever remains a rare but intriguing given name, often chosen by parents who wish to give their child a unique and meaningful moniker. Despite its rarity, it continues to be associated with intelligence, creativity, and individuality.
Statistics on the given name Clever in the United States show a fluctuating trend over time. Between 2003 and 2023, there were a total of 113 babies born with this unique name.
The peak years for births of children named Clever occurred recently, with 12 births recorded in 2020 and 7 births in both 2023 and 2015. Interestingly, the name's popularity seems to have waned slightly in recent years, with only 5 births each in 2021 and 2022.
Despite these fluctuations, Clever remains a distinctive choice for parents looking to give their child an uncommon yet memorable name.