clara

Clara is a feminine given name of Latin origin, derived from clarus, meaning bright or clear. It has long been used across Europe and the Americas and remains common in English, Spanish, Italian, German, and Portuguese speaking communities. The French form Claire is closely related.

The name's popularity is linked to Christian tradition, notably Saint Clare (Clara) of Assisi, who founded the Poor Clares in the 13th century. Through the Middle Ages and into modern times, Clara spread via literature, art, and religious devotion.

Notable bearers include Clara Barton, American nurse who founded the American Red Cross; Clara Schumann, German pianist and composer; Clara Bow, American silent-film star; Clara Zetkin, German Marxist theorist and women's rights advocate; Clara Rockmore, Theremin virtuoso; and Clara Peller, actress famous for the "Where's the beef?" campaign.

In fiction, Clara appears as Clara Oswald, a Doctor Who companion; Clara Clayton in Back to the Future Part III; and as a central figure in various adaptations of The Nutcracker.

Today the name remains common in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries and is still used in English-speaking regions, with variants such as Klara and Klara in different languages.