Origin
Old English & Latin roots, derived from 'Cliff' or from Latin 'Clivus' meaning 'slope' or 'hill'. The surname Clive originates from geographical features, particularly a place name in Northumberland, England, first recorded in medieval texts. In Australia, the name was introduced through British colonisation, with notable early settlers bearing the surname. There are no known Aboriginal or Māori origins for this name.
Meaning
Literal meaning 'slope' or 'cliff'. In Australian English, it often connotes strength, stability, and a rugged outdoor resilience, fitting the country's landscape and cultural imagery.
Pronunciation
/klaɪv/ - comparing to the British pronunciation 'klīv' with emphasis on the first syllable, with the 'i' as in 'light'. Australian English pronunciation aligns closely with British RP.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Cliff (related name, meaning 'cliff')
- Clivey (diminutive or affectionate form)
- Klaive (less common variant)
Nicknames
- Clivie
- Clivy
Name Days
- Clive - 4 June (commemorates Saint Clive, a less universally recognised date but used in some Christian calendars)
- 4 June (Fête de Saint Clive) - celebrated in some Catholic communities.
- Māori and Aboriginal cultural acknowledgment of landscape features where Clive might evoke local landforms, though no specific cultural event is associated with this name.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with clive:
- James and Clive
- Oliver and Clive
- Sophie and Clive
Fun Facts
- The town of Clive in New South Wales celebrates its name with local festivals.
- Clive is also the name of a famous Australian horse that competed in major races.
- The Australian city Clive is known for its beautiful river landscapes.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name clive:
- rugged
- reliable
- outdoorsy
- classic
Aesthetic Qualities
The name has a strong, straightforward visual appeal, with a balanced combination of consonants and vowels, making it easy to read and write in both formal and informal contexts.
Geographical Distribution
More prevalent in New South Wales and Victoria among older generations. Less common in Queensland and Western Australia, where other traditional names dominate.
Numerological Significance
Name number 8, symbolising power, material success, and discipline, which aligns with traditional Australian values of resilience and fortitude in the face of adversity.
Astrological Connections
Associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, reflecting attributes of ambition, discipline, and resilience, qualities often admired in Australian culture.
Historical Context
Famous Australians include Clive James (writer, critic, broadcaster) and Clive Palmer (businessman and politician). The name has literary roots through figures like Clive of India, though this is more historical than Australian-focused.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name Clive easily adapts into various languages with minor spelling adjustments, though it remains distinctly English in origin. No major variants in non-Latin scripts.
Famous People Named clive
- Clive James (Writer, Critic, Broadcaster)
- Clive Palmer (Businessman, Politician)
- Clive Owen (Actor, international but with Australian connections through relatives)
Popularity in Australia
| Year | Count |
|---|---|
| 2015 | 1 |