Boy Name · English Origin
Cliff
Last reviewed: June 2026
Cliff — a boy name from the English tradition — is an uncommon, standout choice. Its meaning, "Ford by a cliff", anchors the name in something deeper than sound alone. If Cleve is on your shortlist, Cliff belongs in the same conversation.
Names like Cliff
Frequently asked about Cliff
What does the name Cliff mean?
Cliff means "Ford by a cliff" and is of English origin.
What is the origin of Cliff?
Cliff originates in English naming tradition.
How do you pronounce Cliff?
Cliff has 5 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable.
Is Cliff a boy's or girl's name?
Cliff is primarily used as a boy's name in US records.
How popular is Cliff in 2026?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Cliff sits in the Rare tier — an uncommon, standout choice.
What names are similar to Cliff?
Names that share Cliff's sound and style include Cleve, Clive, Cleave, Colby, Caleb.