Meaning: Its source is Clarensis, a Latin name meaning "One who lives near the River Clare."

Origin: "Clarensis."

Nickname For: Clarence

Popularity: The name Clair ranked 754th in popularity for males of all ages in a sample of the 1990 US Census.

Though this name appears on the 1990 U.S. Census lists, it is used by only a small percentage of the general population.

Narrative: This name was created for an aristocratic family with holdings close to the River Clare in Ireland.

Meaning: Its source is a Latin expression meaning "Brilliant."

Popularity: The name Clair ranked 1942nd in popularity for females of all ages in a sample of the 1990 US Census.

Though this name appears on the 1990 U.S. Census lists, it is used by only a small percentage of the general population.

Narrative: Brilliance is a recurring name idea, as shown in this name, Bertha, Helen, and a form of the Chinese name Ming.

The breadth of the idea can best be understood by studying the pictogram that represents the Chinese name. It shows the sun with the moon reflecting its light, and stands not only for brightness and clarity, but also for understanding, aptitude and fame.