Clement

Latin, "mild, merciful"

Strong-yet-gentle Clement is a word name – albeit a rarely-used word – meaning “mild, merciful”. Popular in the early twentieth century, this name is ripe for revival, just as its female counterpart Clementine has already taken off.

St Clement, of Oranges and Lemons fame, was one of the first Popes, and is the patron saint of blacksmiths and metalworkers – and therefore connected with traditions surrounding ancient smith figures like Wayland and Vulcan. More recently, Clement Clark Moore wrote the Christmas poem A Visit from St. Nicholas. We love the contrast between formal, slightly old-fashioned Clement, and its down-to-earth nickname Clem.

Nameberry of the Day features our favorite names – but we want to showcase your favorites too! Send us the name you love most to grace@nameberry.com and don’t forget to include the origin, the meaning, a paragraph on why you love it, plus your own name, for the chance to see it featured here in the future.