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Clarke
1. Clarke name meaning and origin
The surname Clarke, a variant of Clark, has its origins in Old English and derives from the word 'clerec' or 'clerc,' which referred to a scribe, scholar, secretary, or member of a religious order. This occupational surname emerged during the Middle Ages when individuals who were clerks or worked as scribes for nobility or churches adopted the title as their family name. The addition of the 'e' in Clarke represents a common spelling variation that developed in medieval England and Ireland.
Clarke has strong Anglo-Saxon and Norman roots, becoming widespread after the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. The name gained particular prominence in Ireland where it became one of the most common anglicized forms of the Gaelic surname Ó Cléirigh, meaning 'descendant of the cleric.' Throughout history, the name has maintained its association with literacy, education, and religious service, reflecting the important role that clerks played in medieval society when literacy was a rare and valued skill.
2. Clarke name popularity
Girl
Boy
#0
in 2023
0
from 2022
Popularity of Clarke
United States
United Kingdom
Clarke is a unisex name of English origin, derived from the Old English "clerc," meaning "scribe" or "scholar." The name appears in both the United States and the United Kingdom as a given name for both males and females, though it has traditionally been more common as a surname. While historical ranking data is limited, Clarke has maintained a quiet presence in naming records without reaching high levels of popularity.
In modern usage, Clarke has gained some recognition through notable bearers such as science fiction author Arthur C. Clarke and characters in popular culture. The name carries a distinguished, scholarly quality that appeals to parents looking for a name with British heritage and a sophisticated sound, while its unisex nature offers versatility for contemporary naming trends.
3. Variations and nicknames of Clarke
The name Clarke, primarily of English origin, has evolved through centuries of use across different regions and cultures. Originally a surname derived from the Latin 'clericus,' meaning 'scribe' or 'cleric,' Clarke has transformed into a popular first name with several spelling variations. Common variants include Clark, Clare, Clerk, and the more modern spellingsKlarke and Clarc. In Scottish tradition, the variant Clarkin appears occasionally, while Irish families might use Ó Cléirigh or O'Clery, which share etymological roots. The feminine variations Clarissa and Clarice, though technically distinct names, are sometimes considered extended variants of Clarke, especially in genealogical research.
As with many traditional names, Clarke has spawned numerous affectionate nicknames and diminutives used by family and friends. The most straightforward nickname is simply 'Clark,' dropping the final 'e' for convenience. Other common informal versions include Clarkey, which adds a playful suffix, and CK or C.K., using the name's initials. For children especially, parents might use endearing forms like Clarkie or Clarky. Some bearers of the name might go by middle names or completely unrelated nicknames to distinguish themselves, particularly in settings where multiple people share the name. The versatility of Clarke allows for creative short forms, with some individuals preferring the simple 'C' as a modern, minimalist option. In professional contexts, the full Clarke typically remains preferred, maintaining the name's dignified English heritage while still allowing for personalization in social settings through these varied nicknames.
4. Best name combinations with Clarke
Middle names that pair well with Clarke:
- Clarke Alexander
- Clarke Benjamin
- Clarke Donovan
- Clarke Elliot
- Clarke Finnegan
- Clarke Gabriel
- Clarke Harrison
- Clarke Isaiah
- Clarke Jonathan
- Clarke Nathaniel
- Clarke Oliver
- Clarke Sebastian
- Clarke Theodore
- Clarke William
- Clarke Xavier
- Clarke Zachary
- Clarke Evelyn
- Clarke Madison
- Clarke Victoria
- Clarke Elizabeth
Names that go well when Clarke is used as a middle name:
- Alexander Clarke
- Bennett Clarke
- Callum Clarke
- Duncan Clarke
- Ethan Clarke
- Frederick Clarke
- Graham Clarke
- Henry Clarke
- Ian Clarke
- James Clarke
- Kenneth Clarke
- Lachlan Clarke
- Malcolm Clarke
- Nicholas Clarke
- Owen Clarke
- Penelope Clarke
- Quinn Clarke
- Rosalind Clarke
- Sophia Clarke
- Vivienne Clarke
5. Numerology of Clarke name
Destiny Number (Expression Number):
16/7
C (3) + L (3) + A (1) + R (9) + K (2) + E (5) = 23 = 2+3 = 5
Your Destiny Number 5 indicates you're naturally versatile and freedom-loving. You thrive on change and variety, making you adaptable in challenging situations. Career-wise, you excel in fields requiring communication, travel, or problem-solving that needs innovative approaches. In relationships, you seek partners who respect your independence while providing intellectual stimulation.
Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):
5
A (1) + E (5) = 6
With Soul Urge Number 6, you deeply desire harmony and balance. You have a natural nurturing instinct and find fulfillment in caring for others. You value stable, loving relationships and are drawn to careers where you can make a positive difference in people's lives, such as teaching, counseling, or healthcare. You seek meaningful connections based on mutual support.
Personality Number:
11/2
C (3) + L (3) + R (9) + K (2) = 17 = 1+7 = 8
Your Personality Number 8 presents you to the world as confident, ambitious, and authoritative. People likely see you as capable and driven. This energy supports career paths in leadership, business, finance, or any field where organizational skills and determination are valued. In relationships, you appear dependable and strong, attracting partners who appreciate structure and reliability.
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.
6. Clarke name in pop culture
Name
Description
Dr. David Clarke
Character from the ABC television series 'Revenge', father of protagonist Emily Thorne/Amanda Clarke who was framed for terrorism
Arthur C. Clarke
Famous author who co-wrote '2001: A Space Odyssey' with Stanley Kubrick and created the highly influential character of HAL 9000
Clarke Griffin
Main protagonist in the post-apocalyptic science fiction TV series 'The 100', portrayed by actress Eliza Taylor
John Clarke
Character portrayed by Ryan Phillippe in the action series 'Shooter', a skilled former Marine sniper
Emilia Clarke
Actress who played Daenerys Targaryen in the HBO series 'Game of Thrones', though this is a real person rather than a fictional character
7. Famous people named Clarke
Name
Description
Emilia Clarke
British actress best known for her role as Daenerys Targaryen in HBO's Game of Thrones and films such as Me Before You and Last Christmas
Clarke Peters
American actor known for his roles in The Wire as Detective Lester Freamon and in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
Arthur C. Clarke
British science fiction writer and futurist, co-writer of the screenplay for 2001: A Space Odyssey and author of numerous influential sci-fi novels
Jason Clarke
Australian actor known for roles in Zero Dark Thirty, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, and Terminator Genisys
Bobby Clarke
Canadian former professional ice hockey player considered one of the greatest NHL players of all time who led the Philadelphia Flyers to two Stanley Cup championships
Darren Clarke
Northern Irish professional golfer who won the 2011 Open Championship and has represented Europe in the Ryder Cup multiple times
Michael Clarke
Australian former international cricketer and captain who led Australia to victory in the 2015 Cricket World Cup
Jeremiah Clarke
English baroque composer and organist best known for his composition 'Trumpet Voluntary' (though often misattributed to Henry Purcell)
Noel Clarke
British actor, screenwriter, director, and producer known for his role in Doctor Who and for writing and starring in the film trilogy Kidulthood, Adulthood, and Brotherhood
Shirley Clarke
American experimental and documentary filmmaker and pioneer of independent cinema known for films like The Connection and Portrait of Jason
8. Names similar to Clarke
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