Name Meaning & Origin
🔊 KLIF-tun /ˈklɪftən/
"Cliff town"
Data last updated: 2025 SSA records
Derived from Old English ‘clif’ meaning cliff and ‘tun’ meaning enclosure or settlement.
Clifton is a given name. Notable people with the name include:Clifton Abraham, American and Canadian football player Clifton Bailey, Jamaican reggae musician, better known as Capleton Clifton Bloomfield, American serial killer Clifton R. Breckinridge (1846–1932), American politician Clifton Campbell, American sprinter Clifton Bush, American professional basketball player Clifton B. Cates (1893–1970), United States Marine Corps four-star general Clifton Chenier (1925–1987), American zydeco musician Clifton Collins Jr., American actor Clifton Daniel (1912–2000), American newspaperman Clifton Daniel (bishop), American bishop Clifton Truman Daniel, American writer, public relations executive, and grandson of Harry S. Truman Clifton Davis, American actor Clifton DeBerry (1923–2006), A
the name Clifton originates from the English words cliff and ton, meaning settlement by the cliff, and has been used as a surname and given name with strong historical significance…
Emotional Traits
Hidden Personality
Lucky Colors
Numerology: Expressive, creative, and artistic.
Life Path 7 — Wisdom & Introspection: Analytical, spiritual, and truth-seeking.
Cultural Impact
The name Clifton can evoke images of strength and resilience due to its origins as a name derived from Old English ‘clif’ meaning cliff. This can offer a sense of security and stability, both in personal and communal contexts. Additionally, the ‘ton’ suffix in the name signifies a place of settlement, which could imply a strong sense of community and belonging.
Spiritual Significance
The name Clifton carries spiritual significance as it is tied to the natural world – inspired by the image of a cliff, a reminder of the power and grandeur of God’s creation. In a more figurative sense, a cliff could represent the highs and lows of life, and the challenges and triumphs that come with it. Biblically speaking, Psalm 18:2 refers to God as “my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Like a cliff, God offers protection, stability, and strength, reminding us of His presence during the highs and lows of life.
Age breakdown · state data · decade charts · popularity trend — all on the full statistics page.
Root element "Clifton" emerges in (Old English) tradition, carrying the core meaning "Cliff town".
Used in English literary and religious texts, spreading through cultural exchange.
Carried across regions through trade, religion, and migration. Multiple spelling variants develop.
Standardized in its current form. Continues to be used across multiple cultures worldwide.
~70,600 people named Clifton in the US. Peaked in 1975 with 1,224 recorded uses.
Historical records show that Clifton of Cloyne, a 13th-century Irish bishop. The name Clifton carried significant spiritual weight in that era.
Modern Usage
The name Clifton remains relevant in modern Christian society, representing a bridge between traditional Biblical values and contemporary life. It is widely discussed on digital platforms and continues to be a popular choice for families seeking meaningful Christian names.
Clifton means "Cliff town" and is a popular Christian name with deep spiritual significance.
Yes, Clifton is a beautiful Christian name that carries positive meaning and is widely used in Christian communities around the world.
Clifton has (Old English) origins and is rooted in Christian tradition and culture.
The Life Path number for Clifton is 7, associated with Wisdom & Introspection. Soul Urge: 6. Personality: 1.
Clifton is Predominantly Male. Based on US data, 99% male and 1% female.
Approximately 70,600 people in the United States are named Clifton. The name peaked in 1975 with 1,224 recorded uses.
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