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BoyEnglish#1340stable

Clifford

KLIF-ərd

Clifford is a boy’s name of English origin, meaning “From the cliff near the ford, meaning a place near a river crossing by a cliff.”. It currently ranks #1340 in the US, and peaked in popularity in 1925.

Letters8
Syllables2
OriginEnglish

What Clifford Means

From the cliff near the ford, meaning a place near a river crossing by a cliff.

The Story of Clifford

This name speaks of steadfastness and a secure crossing, a guardian of thresholds near the water's edge.

Clifford is an English name derived from the Old English words 'clif,' meaning cliff, and 'ford,' meaning a river crossing. It originally served as a surname for someone who lived near such a geographical landmark. The name emerged as a given name in the 19th century, evoking images of stability, tradition, and a connection to the landscape.

To say 'Clifford' aloud is to feel a sense of steadfastness and reliable presence. It’s a name that sounds dependable, like a strong hand to hold. For your son, it suggests a loyal and protective nature, someone who can be counted on. When you write Clifford on his birth announcement, you are bestowing a name that feels rooted and secure.

Nickname Watch

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Numerology

8

The Achiever

Powerful, determined, and success-oriented. Names at 8 project confidence and ambition.

Famous Namesakes

  • Clifford Odets

    American playwright and screenwriter.

  • Clifford Brown

    Influential American jazz trumpeter.

Personality Traits

LoyalStrongDependableTraditional

Spelling Variations

Peak Year

#3,473 in 1925

Total Births

190,128

First Recorded

1880

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