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Origin and meaning of the name Cleis

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What is the origin of the name Cleis?

The origin of the name Cleis is Greek. In Greek mythology, Cleis was a nymph who was said to have possessed the only pair of bronze doors that guarded the entrance to the realm of the dead, known as Hades. She was tasked with allowing souls to pass into the underworld and denying them passage back to the land of the living. The name Cleis is derived from the Greek word "kleis" meaning key or bolt, referring to her role as the gatekeeper.

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The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Cleis

The name Cleis is of Greek origin, derived from the ancient Greek word "κλεις" (kleis), which means "key." In Greek mythology, Cleis was the legendary guardian of the Temple of Hera in Argos who turned herself into a rock after being caught spying on Hera. The name has been used as a given name in various forms across different cultures and languages, such as Klea in Albania or Cléo in France. As a modern name, Cleis is a unique and exotic choice, evoking the rich history and mythology of ancient Greece. It is a strong and symbolic name for a child, representing power, guardianship, and transformation.

Character traits associated with the name Cleis

Cleis is often associated with intelligence and creativity, as the name originates from Greek mythology and was borne by several wise and inventive figures. In literature, Cleis is depicted as a skilled architect who designed the labyrinth for King Minos. This association suggests that individuals named Cleis may possess a strong problem-solving ability and an aptitude for innovative thinking. Additionally, Cleis is also linked to persistence and determination, mirroring the mythological character's relentless pursuit of knowledge. In modern times, people named Cleis are likely to be independent, resourceful, and ambitious individuals who strive for excellence in their endeavors.

Popularity of the name Cleis

The name Cleis is relatively uncommon in Western countries, particularly in the United States and England. According to data from the Social Security Administration, it ranked outside the top 1000 most popular girls' names in the U.S. between 2000 and 2020. However, it has seen some occasional use, with a slight increase in popularity towards the end of the 20th century. The name Cleis is rooted in Greek mythology, where Cleis was the name of a woman who guarded the gates of the underworld, lending it an intriguing and unique quality that may appeal to some parents seeking less common names for their children.

Famous people with the name Cleis

Cleis is an uncommon given name, and it's primarily associated with three notable figures:

1. Cleis Strange (1849-1923), an American stage actress who was popular during the late 19th century and early 20th century. She was known for her work in melodramas and Shakespearean plays, performing on both the East and West Coasts of the United States.

2. Cleis van Veen (born 1948), a Dutch-American author and editor who has written books on sexuality, feminism, and personal growth. Her works include "The Ethical Slut," which became a bestseller and is considered a seminal work in the field of ethical non-monogamy.

3. Cleis Frazier (born 1968), an American professional basketball player who played for several WNBA teams during her career, including the Detroit Shock and Indiana Fever. She was a three-time All-Star and helped lead the Shock to two WNBA championships in 2003 and 2006.

Variations of the name Cleis

Cleis is a name of Greek origin, most notably associated with the famous ancient Greek author Cleitophon who wrote an epitaph for Plato's tomb. The name can be spelled variously as Claeys, Kleis, and Klaes in different regions and cultures. It is a unisex name, but more commonly used for females in modern times. Variations of the female form include Clea, Clair, Clara, Clare, Claire, Claris, Clarice, and Klara, among others. The male variations are less common but may include names like Claeys, Klaas, Klaus, or Klaz in different languages and regions. Regardless of the spelling or gender, Cleis signifies 'key' in Greek, symbolizing control, authority, and unlocking potential.
NomOrigine Team
About the author :

NomOrigine Team

Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.

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