Clarence

Fact-checked by Jaime Babiera

1. Clarence name meaning and origin

The name Clarence derives from the Latin surname 'Clarensis.' Etymologically, it connects to the Latin word 'clarus,' meaning 'clear,' 'bright,' or 'illustrious.' The name gained prominence in England after the Norman Conquest, when it became associated with the Dukedom of Clarence, a royal title in the British peerage first created in 1362 for Lionel of Antwerp, the son of King Edward III.

As a given name, Clarence rose to particular popularity in English-speaking countries during the Victorian era, reflecting the period's fascination with medieval history and aristocratic titles. The name carries connotations of nobility and distinction, owing to its historical connection to British royalty. Though its usage has declined since its peak in the early 20th century, Clarence remains a classic name with an air of dignity and refinement, embodying its Latin roots of clarity and distinction.

Clarence

References:

2. Clarence name popularity

Girl

Boy

in 2023

from 2022

Popularity of Clarence

United States

United Kingdom

Clarence is primarily a masculine name with a long history in both the United States and the United Kingdom. While predominantly used for boys, it occasionally appears as a female name in America. The name derives from the Latin "Clarentius," meaning bright or clear, and gained popularity through British nobility, particularly the Duke of Clarence title.

Though specific ranking data isn't available in our dataset, Clarence experienced its peak popularity in the early 20th century. The name's usage has declined in recent decades, giving it a classic, vintage quality today. Notable namesakes include Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and actor Clarence Williams III, who have helped maintain the name's dignified image.

3. Clarence in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

The name Clarence has been used in various forms of fiction, both in classic literature and present media. A list of some prominent characters bearing the name in fictional works is listed below.

Literature:

Clarence

A 12-year-old character from Mark Twain's novel, “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court”. He’s the protagonist’s protégé and helps introduce 19th-century technology to the medieval world.

Eustace Clarence Scrubb

He first appeared in “The Voyage of the Dawn Treader”, he is introduced as a bratty bully before undergoing a significant transformation.

Clarence Crump

A character from the early, unpublished drafts of Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”.

Lord Clarence Emsworth

The lovable, eccentric, and pig-obsessed Earl of Emsworth in “Blandings Castle" series, known for his obsession with his prize sow, the Empress of Blandings.

Films and Television:

Clarence Worley

He is a lonely, Elvis Presley-loving comic book store clerk, and the main character in the 1993 American romantic crime film “True Romance”.

Clarence Wendle

The titular protagonist of the Cartoon Network series “Clarence”; a chubby, endlessly optimistic, and spirited boy who sees the wonder in everything around him.

Clarence Boddicker

The cold-blooded and sadistic crime lord who serves as the primary human antagonist in the original “RoboCop" film.

Clarence Beeks

A corrupt government official and the secondary antagonist in the comedy film “Trading Places’, portrayed by actor Paul Gleason.

Video Games:

Clarence Little

A minor antagonist and drug dealer in “Grand Theft Auto IV” who can be spared or killed by the protagonist, Niko Bellic, on a rooftop in East Holland.

4. Celebrities with the Name Clarence

Aside from fiction, the name Clarence has also been carried by real-life figures in entertainment, sports, and music. From actors to athletes, these celebrities have helped keep the name visible in popular culture.

Historical Figures:

Clarence Darrow

A legendary American lawyer and civil rights hero best known for defending the teaching of evolution in the Scopes "Monkey" Trial.

Clarence Darrow

Image source: Wikipedia

Clarence Birdseye

An American inventor and entrepreneur considered the founder of the modern frozen food industry.

Clarence Birdseye

Image source: Wikipedia

Clarence Nash

An iconic American voice actor, best known as the original, distinctive voice of Donald Duck for over 50 years.

Clarence Nash

Image source: Wikipedia

Clarence 13X

Born Clarence Edward Smith, he was a former member of the Nation of Islam and the founder of the Five-Percent Nation.

Contemporary Celebrities:

Clarence Thomas

He is the longest-serving current Associate Justice on the U.S. Supreme Court, appointed by President George H.W. Bush in 1991.

Clarence Seedorf

A legendary Dutch footballer and the only player to win the UEFA Champions League with three different clubs (Ajax, Real Madrid, and AC Milan).

Clarence "The Big Man" Clemons

He was the iconic, larger-than-life saxophonist for Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band, known for his powerful solos on hits like "Born to Run" and "Jungleland,"

Clarence Williams III

An actor famous for his role as Linc Hayes in The Mod Squad and for playing Prince’s father in “Purple Rain”.

Clarence Gilyard

A versatile actor known for Walker, “Texas Ranger”, Matlock, and his role as the hacker Theo in “Die Hard”.

Clarence Avant

He is known as "The Black Godfather," he was a powerhouse music executive who mentored generations of artists and producers.

Clarence Maclin

A breakout actor who gained critical acclaim for his role in the 2024 film “Sing Sing”, based on his own life experiences.

Clancy Brown

Born Clarence J. Brown III, he is a prolific actor known for “The Shawshank Redemption” and as the voice of Mr. Krabs on “SpongeBob SquarePants”.

Celebrities Who Named Their Babies This Way:

Aretha Franklin

She named her first son Clarence after her father, Rev. C.L. Franklin, when she gave birth at age 12 in 1955, though the father's identity remained private for years.

Louis Armstrong

Together with his wife, Lucille, they adopted their cousin's son, and his name was Clarence Hatfield Armstrong.

Steve Irwin

The "Crocodile Hunter" named his son, Robert Clarence Irwin.

5. Variations and nicknames of Clarence

The name Clarence, with its dignified and classic appeal, has evolved across various cultures and generations, giving rise to numerous spelling variations. These include Clarens, Claron, Claronz, Clarendon, Klarance, Clarons, Clarance, Clarrence, and Clarrance and Klarens. These variants preserve the essence of the original name while adapting to local linguistic patterns and pronunciation norms, demonstrating how personal names transcend cultural boundaries while maintaining their distinctive character.

Alongside formal variants, Clarence has spawned an array of affectionate nicknames that friends and family use. The most common diminutives include Clare, Clay, and Ren, which offer brevity while maintaining a connection to the original name. Other popular nicknames include Clarry, Cal, and Cee. Some families might use more playful versions like Clancy Clance, or Larry. These diverse nicknames provide flexibility, allowing individuals named Clarence to choose how they present themselves across different social contexts and stages of life.

6. Best name combinations with Clarence

names that pair well with Clarence:

Clarence Alexander
Clarence Edward
Clarence Theodore
Clarence Julian
Clarence William
Clarence Nathaniel
Clarence Augustus
Clarence Eugene
Clarence Tristan
Clarence Emil
Clarence Keith
Clarence Norman
Clarence Hector
Clarence Harrison
Clarence Augustus
Clarence Trevor
Clarence Oscar
Clarence Montgomery
Clarence Franz
Clarence Donovan
William Clarence
James Clarence
Edward Clarence
Frederick Clarence
Theodore Clarence
Nathaniel Clarence
Alexander Clarence
Harrison Clarence
Sebastian Clarence
Maximilian Clarence
Jeffrey Clarence
Archibald Clarence
Lucius Clarence
Benjamin Clarence
Montgomery Clarence
Robin Clarence
Leon Clarence
Reginald Clarence
Donovan Clarence
Jack Clarence

7. Numerology of Clarence name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

7
C(3) + L(3) + A(1) + R(9) + E(5) + N(5) + C(3) + E(5) = 34 = 3+4 = 7

The Destiny Number 7 indicates a deeply analytical and introspective nature. Clarence possesses natural investigative abilities and thrives when seeking knowledge. In careers, this number suggests success in research, science, analysis, or spiritual work. In relationships, Clarence may be somewhat reserved initially, needing time to open up, but offers profound loyalty and intellectual connection when trust is established. The 7 vibration suggests a need for occasional solitude to recharge.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

2
A(1) + E(5) + E(5) = 11 = 1+1 = 2

With a Soul Urge Number 2, Clarence's inner desire is harmony and emotional connection. Deep inside, Clarence yearns for peaceful relationships and diplomatic resolutions. In career settings, this manifests as being an excellent team player and mediator. In personal relationships, Clarence deeply values emotional connection and partnership, often putting others' needs first to maintain harmony.

Personality Number:

5
C(3) + L(3) + R(9) + N(5) + C(3) = 23 = 2+3 = 5

The Personality Number 5 reveals that Clarence appears adaptable and versatile to others. People likely see Clarence as freedom-loving, adventurous, and a dynamic individual. This outward energy attracts diverse social connections and opportunities for varied experiences. In professional settings, Clarence's apparent flexibility and progressive thinking can open doors to dynamic career paths. In relationships, this number suggests Clarence comes across as engaging and stimulating, though potentially restless if feeling constrained.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

8. Names similar to Clarence

Like Clarence ? What about:

Darcy

Seymour

Golden

Dasha

Caden

Vita

Romeo

Ella

Cayden

Kristie

Bette

Eli

Afton

Caleb

Paschal

Carter

Genya

Declan

Elaine

Campbell

Common sibling names

Sisters

August

Maxine

Carter

Charlee

Elise

Celeste

Frances

Camille

Elaine

Estelle

Marcie

Ainsley

Bella

Gemma

Darcy

Julie

Lara

Ella

Clara

Connie

Brothers

Caiden

Caden

Cayden

Julius

Patrick

Tony

Bodie

Aiden

Darcy

Forrest

Quentin

Declan

August

Caleb

Caius

Lionel

Bennett

Julio

Eli

Carter

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Jaime Babiera is a team leader at Infinity Web Solutions. As a former research intern at Rappler and contributor of op-ed pieces to the Daily Guardian, he developed expertise in rigorous information verification and published substantive editorial outputs driven by professional integrity and factual accuracy. His body of work reflects a strong commitment to truth, transparency, and excellence, ensuring every piece he releases or project he leads is reliable and compelling.

Clarence