NomOrigine Background

Origin and meaning of the name Clyde

What is the origin of the name Clyde?

The name Clyde is of Scottish origin and is derived from the River Clyde in Scotland. The name Clyde is believed to be derived from the Gaelic word "Cluaidh," which means "wash" or "cleanse." It has been used as a given name for boys in Scotland and other English-speaking countries for many years.

Learn more about the origin of the name Clyde

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Clyde

The name Clyde is of Scottish origin and is derived from the River Clyde, which flows through the city of Glasgow in Scotland. The name is believed to mean "warm" or "mild" in Gaelic. Clyde has been used as a given name since the late 19th century, likely influenced by the popularity of the name as a surname in Scotland. Famous bearers of the name include the outlaw Clyde Barrow from the infamous duo Bonnie and Clyde and the Scottish footballer Clyde Best. The name Clyde has a rugged and masculine feel to it, evoking images of strength and resilience.

Character traits associated with the name Clyde

The name Clyde is often associated with characteristics such as strength, resilience, and determination. Individuals named Clyde are typically known for their confidence and leadership abilities, often taking charge in difficult situations. They are also perceived as hardworking and reliable, with a strong sense of loyalty to their friends and family. Clydes are often seen as adventurous and daring, unafraid to push boundaries and take risks. They are known for their competitive spirit and drive to succeed, always striving to achieve their goals. Overall, individuals named Clyde are often seen as charismatic and influential, with a natural charm that draws others to them.

Popularity of the name Clyde

The name Clyde has been gradually decreasing in popularity over the years in the United States. In the early 1900s, Clyde was a relatively common name for boys, reaching its peak in the 1920s. However, its popularity started to decline in the mid-20th century, and today it is considered a less popular choice for baby boys. In recent years, the name Clyde has seen a slight resurgence, possibly due to its vintage charm and uniqueness. Despite this, it still remains outside of the top 1000 most popular baby names in the country. Clyde may have its loyal followers, but overall, it is not as commonly chosen as other more traditional or trendy names for boys.

Famous people with the name Clyde

One of the most famous individuals with the first name Clyde is Clyde Barrow, known for his criminal activities alongside Bonnie Parker during the Great Depression. Another well-known figure is Clyde Drexler, a retired professional basketball player and member of the Basketball Hall of Fame. Clyde Tombaugh was an American astronomer best known for his discovery of the dwarf planet Pluto in 1930. Additionally, Clyde Frazier is a former professional basketball player and current sports commentator who won two NBA championships with the New York Knicks in the 1970s. Clyde Stubblefield was a renowned drummer who played with James Brown and is often referred to as the "Funky Drummer" for his influential drumming style.

Variations of the name Clyde

The variations of the first name Clyde include Clide, Clyd, Clyder, Clydee, and Clydia. These variations may differ depending on cultural or regional influences. Some individuals may choose to spell the name in a more unique way, such as Klyde or Klyd. The name Clyde has origins in Scottish and English regions, and its meaning is often associated with descriptions like "wood or forest" or "narrow passage." Clyde is a popular name that has been used for both males and females, and its popularity has fluctuated over the years. Overall, the variations of the name Clyde have allowed for diverse interpretations and personalizations of this classic name.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

Share the origin and meaning of your name with your friends

Search the origin of a first name

Enter the first name you are looking for below:

Similar First Names