Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Claire

      Origin 
      French

      Meaning 
      Illustrious, Enlightened

      Variations 
      Maiclaire, Blaire, Claret

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Claire, derived from the French language, has a rich and illustrious history rooted in the meaning of its origin. In French, the name translates to Illustrious or Enlightened, capturing the essence of its significance. Its roots trace back to medieval times when it first gained popularity among the French nobility, embodying the virtues of intelligence, beauty, and grace.

      Throughout history, Claire has frequently appeared in various royal and noble lineages, further enhancing its reputation as a name associated with distinction and refinement. Notably, numerous French princesses, queens, and aristocrats have borne the name Claire, solidifying its position as a symbol of aristocracy and high social standing.

      Fast forward to the modern-day, and the name Claire continues to be embraced by parents worldwide. Its universal appeal resides in its timeless charm and the sense of elegance it effortlessly conveys. Claire is particularly prevalent in English-speaking countries, where it has gained immense popularity in recent decades. Its versatility is apparent as it seamlessly transitions from a traditional classic to a contemporary choice that exudes sophistication. Whether bestowed upon a prominent figure in society or an ordinary individual, Claire remains a name steeped in history and meaning, forever evoking a sense of enlightenment and distinction.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Claire.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Claire.

      Joseph

      is the most common spouse name for Claire.

      Marie

      is the most common child name for Claire.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1924 is when there were the most people born with the first name Claire.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.