Barclay
Barclay is a boy's name of Scottish origin.
Meaning
Birch wood or birch clearing.
Origin and history
Barclay is a name of habitational origin derived from Berkeley in Gloucestershire, England, meaning 'birch wood'. Historically prominent as a Scottish clan surname, it later transitioned into use as a masculine given name. In the United States, Barclay remains a rare and distinctive choice for boys.
Popularity in the United States
954 babies in the United States have been named Barclay since 1880. It ranks #3725 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1921.
States where it is most popular
- CA (100 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 0 |
| 1890-1900 | 0 |
| 1900-1910 | 0 |
| 1910-1920 | 52 |
| 1920-1930 | 59 |
| 1930-1940 | 99 |
| 1940-1950 | 121 |
| 1950-1960 | 131 |
| 1960-1970 | 115 |
| 1970-1980 | 147 |
| 1980-1990 | 115 |
| 1990-2000 | 71 |
| 2000-2010 | 22 |
| 2010-2019 | 16 |
| 2020-2029 | 6 |
Famous people named Barclay
- Barclay Hope: Actor
Nicknames
Clay, Barc
Fun facts
- The name has strong roots in Scottish history through Clan Barclay, which traces its lineage back to the 12th century.
- It originated as an Old English place name meaning 'birch tree meadow' before becoming a surname and later a given name.