Cloud Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationKLOWD / /klaʊd/English; Old English
Meaning
English: cloud; Old English: a visible mass of condensed water vapor
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Cloud has its roots in the Old English word "clud," which referred to a hill or a mass of rock, and is derived from the Proto-Germanic *kludaz. This term evolved through various linguistic stages, including Old Norse "klúðr," which also means a rock or cliff. The transition into the modern English word "cloud" occurred in the Middle English period, where it began to take on its contemporary meaning related to the visible mass of condensed water vapor in the atmosphere. The use of Cloud as a personal name likely emerged from the natural imagery associated with the word, reflecting a connection to nature and the elements.
Historically, the name Cloud has been associated with various cultural and literary references. In the medieval period, names inspired by nature were common, and Cloud could have been used metaphorically to evoke notions of elevation, freedom, or the transient nature of life. While there are no prominent biblical figures or saints directly named Cloud, the name's ethereal quality aligns with the spiritual and poetic themes often found in literature and art throughout the centuries. The name may have gained further resonance through its use in literature, where clouds often symbolize change, emotion, or the divine.
Culturally, the name Cloud carries connotations of mystery and beauty, often associated with the sky and weather phenomena. This connection to nature has allowed the name to endure in various forms, sometimes appearing as a diminutive or variant in different cultures. The symbolic associations with clouds—such as dreams, aspirations, and the passage of time—have contributed to its appeal in naming practices, reflecting humanity's longstanding fascination with the natural world.
Trend Summary
The name Cloud has seen limited usage in the United States, remaining relatively uncommon.
Similar Names
Variants
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International Variants
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Famous people named Cloud
Cloud Strife is a fictional character best known for Final Fantasy VII, Kingdom Hearts, and Super Smash Bros. series.
Cloud Atlas is a novel best known for its complex narrative structure and themes of reincarnation, adapted into a film of the same name.
Fictional characters named Cloud
Cloud Strife is a fictional character from the video game Final Fantasy VII. He is a former SOLDIER who becomes a mercenary and fights against the Shinra Electric Power Company and Sephiroth.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Cloud was first seen in the United States in 1913. Cloud has ranked as high as #1306 nationally, which occurred in 2020, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Minnesota, Florida, and Georgia. In the past 5 years the name Cloud has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Cloud (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 11 | |
| TX | 6 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1913 | 5 |
| 1915 | 5 |
| 1917 | 10 |
| 1918 | 5 |
| 1920 | 5 |
| 1921 | 7 |
| 1922 | 7 |
| 1924 | 12 |
| 1926 | 5 |
| 1927 | 10 |
| 1928 | 6 |
| 1930 | 5 |
| 1931 | 6 |
| 1933 | 5 |
| 1945 | 7 |
| 1980 | 5 |
| 2000 | 7 |
| 2001 | 6 |
| 2003 | 7 |
| 2004 | 6 |
| 2005 | 7 |
| 2006 | 14 |
| 2007 | 21 |
| 2008 | 19 |
| 2009 | 26 |
| 2010 | 26 |
| 2011 | 25 |
| 2012 | 24 |
| 2013 | 18 |
| 2014 | 27 |
| 2015 | 35 |
| 2016 | 31 |
| 2017 | 31 |
| 2018 | 29 |
| 2019 | 23 |
| 2020 | 50 |
| 2021 | 37 |
| 2022 | 45 |
| 2023 | 48 |
| 2024 | 44 |