Clayton
Pronunciation: [ kl-AYT-uhn ]
Does Clayton flow with your last name?
A grounded classic with Southern charm
Reviewed by the NamingEverything Editorial Team · Updated
Meaning & Origin
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Things to Know About This Name
- Clayton Bigsby is a satirical Dave Chappelle character
The Story of Clayton
Clayton derives from Old English elements: claeg meaning clay and tun meaning settlement or enclosure. It literally described a farmstead or village built on clay-rich soil, a common geographical feature in medieval England. The name began as a place name and surname before transitioning into a given name.
Clayton has been used as a given name in English-speaking countries since the 19th century, particularly popular in the American South and Midwest. It peaked in the 1990s in the United States but has remained steadily used. The nickname Clay gives it a friendly, accessible feel that appeals to modern parents seeking a classic but not overly common name.
Clayton carries associations with the American frontier and Southern heritage. The name has been borne by statesmen, athletes, and entertainers, giving it a well-rounded, respectable image. It conveys strength and groundedness without being overly formal.
Historical Record
Clayton first appeared in US Social Security records in 1950.
Over 106,461 babies have been named Clayton in the United States since SSA records began.
Today, Clayton is past its peak , currently ranked #318 for boy names in the US .
Fun Facts
- Clayton is both a given name and a surname, making it versatile
- The element clay in the name refers to the earthy material used in pottery and construction
- Clayton, Missouri is a notable suburb of St. Louis named after Ralph Clayton
- The name shares its root with the English place name Clayton, found in multiple English counties
Clayton in Other Languages
Popularity Over Time
Year-by-year popularity data will be available soon.
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See all →Quick Facts
- Gender
- Boy
- Syllables
- 2
- Popularity Rank
- #318
- Total SSA Count
- 1,081
- Cultural Origins
- English American Australian
- Pronunciation
- Easy
- Formality
- Moderate
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- High
Alternative Spellings
Common Nicknames
Middle Name Ideas
Suggested pairings based on syllable flow and style
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Timeless choice, English heritage match, extended 2-3 combo
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
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Timeless choice, English heritage match, extended 2-3 combo
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Timeless choice, English heritage match, extended 2-3 combo
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
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Timeless choice, English heritage match, extended 2-3 combo
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-1 syllable flow
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Timeless choice, smooth 2-2 syllable flow
Middle Names
Middle Names for Clayton
7 name pairings with syllable flow tips
Sibling Names
Sibling Match
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Also a Girl Name
Clayton is also used as a girl name, ranked #17255.
View Clayton as a girl name →Similar Names
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Same Origin Names (English)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Clayton
What is the origin of the name Clayton?
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About the Name Clayton
Clayton is a boy name with English, American, and Australian origins .
Is Clayton a boy or girl name? Clayton is used as both a boy and girl name. As a boy name, it ranks #318 in popularity. As a girl name, it ranks #17,255. Clayton is more commonly used as a boy name.
Clayton is currently ranked #318 in popularity for boy names in the United States.
The name Clayton has 2 syllables and is pronounced kl-AYT-uhn, making it easy to pronounce and remember.
Common nicknames for Clayton include Clay and C.J.. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.
Alternative spellings of Clayton include Clay . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.
Keep Exploring
Sources
- U.S. Social Security Administration — National Baby Names Data (popularity rankings and historical trends)
- NamingEverything editorial research and analysis