Claude

boyLatinChristian

Claude is a boy name of Latin, via French origin, meaning “From the Roman Claudius; lame”.

MeaningFrom the Roman Claudius; lame
GenderBoy
OriginLatin, via French
PronunciationKLAWD
TraditionModern & Classic, Christian
Used inFrance, Canada, Belgium

Meaning and origin of Claude

Claude is the French form of the Roman family name Claudius, traditionally explained from the Latin claudus, lame, though the Claudians were a powerful patrician family and the link may be folk etymology. It became common in France after the seventh-century St Claude of Besançon. Painter Claude Monet and composer Claude Debussy are among its most famous bearers. In France it is also used for girls.

Is Claude a religious name?

Claude is used in Christian France partly in honour of St Claude, but it has no wider religious meaning.

How popular is Claude?

Common in France for people born in the mid-twentieth century; uncommon elsewhere.

Gifts with the name Claude

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Spellings and variants of Claude

ClaudioClaudiusKlausClaud

Names similar to Claude

LouisPierreJulienRene

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Claude mean?

Claude means 'From the Roman Claudius; lame'. It is of Latin, via French origin.

Does Claude have a religious meaning?

Claude is used in Christian France partly in honour of St Claude, but it has no wider religious meaning.

How do you pronounce Claude?

Claude is pronounced KLAWD.

Is Claude a boy or girl name?

Claude is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.