Clara

Meaning: (Clear, Bright, Famous, Post Classical name from the feminine form of the adjective “Clarus”. In the modern English- speaking world, it represents a re-Latinization of the normal English form Clare. The name Clarus was borne by a few early saints. The feminine form was popularized by the 13^th Century Saint Clare of Assisi (called Chiara in Italian), a friend and follower of Saint Francis, who left her wealthy family to found the order of nuns known as the Poor Clares. As an English name it has been in use since the Middle Ages, originally in the form Clare, though the Latinate spelling Clara became more popular in the 19^th Century. Also a nickname for Clarissa. Made famous in the 1920’s by the silent film actress Clara Bow, known as “the It girl”, because whatever “it” was, she had it.)

Origin: (Latin)

Pronunciation: (KLAH-rah (Italian, German, Spanish), KLER-ə (English), KLAR-ə (English), KLAERah (English), KLEHRah (English), KLAARaa (German, Italian, and Spanish), KLAH-rah)

Gender: Female

This is a name I have used for one of my main characters old best friends’ daughter’s name. I love saying this name because it rolls off the tongue nicely and is fun to say. It’s like when you say it your tongue rolls off the top of your mouth when you say it and it sounds nice when it is said. I think I like Clara much better than Clare or Claire. The meanings are lovely and it’s a short name which is a plus sometimes.