Clay

Meaning of Clay

Clay refers to earth or soil. It can also refer to someone who lives near a clay pit or works with clay.

Clay has English roots — browse every English baby name in our catalog.

Popularity of Clay

Clay has cooled off, slipping to #573 in 2025, down from a peak of #396 in 2000.

Notable people named Clay

• Muhammad Ali
  Legendary boxer, activist
• Clay Aiken
  Singer, "American Idol" star
• Clay Matthews III
  Former NFL Linebacker
• Clay Helton
  American Football Coach
• Clay Shaw
  Businessman, JFK conspiracy figure

More English names

Questions about the name Clay

What does the name Clay mean?

Clay means clay refers to earth or soil. it can also refer to someone who lives near a clay pit or works with clay, and it comes from English origins.

Is Clay a boy's or a girl's name?

Clay is most commonly used as a boy's name in the United States.

How popular is the name Clay?

In 2025, Clay ranked #573 for boys, down from #543 the year before.

When was Clay most popular?

Clay peaked at #396 in 2000.