Clay

boyEnglish

Clay is an boy name of English origin, meaning “Clay; from clay land”.

MeaningClay; from clay land
GenderBoy
OriginEnglish
PronunciationKLAY
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, Canada, Australia

Meaning and origin of Clay

Clay is a short English name taken from the surname Clay, given to someone who lived on clay soil or worked with clay, from the Old English clæg. It also serves as a short form of Clayton. In the United States it was sometimes given in honour of the statesman Henry Clay, the nineteenth-century senator known as 'the Great Compromiser'.

Is Clay a religious name?

Clay has no religious background as a name, though clay is a familiar biblical image for human beings shaped by God.

How popular is Clay?

Occasional in the United States, often as a nickname for Clayton.

Gifts with the name Clay

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Spellings and variants of Clay

Names similar to Clay

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Clay mean?

Clay means 'Clay; from clay land'. It is of English origin.

Does Clay have a religious meaning?

Clay has no religious background as a name, though clay is a familiar biblical image for human beings shaped by God.

How do you pronounce Clay?

Clay is pronounced KLAY.

Is Clay a boy or girl name?

Clay is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.