Clover
/ˈkloʊ.vəɹ/
The name Clover comes directly from the English word for the plant genus Trifolium, which derives from Old English clāfre, itself from a Proto-Germanic root *klaibrō possibly meaning “sticky” — a reference to the plant’s sap.
The 4-leaf variant has been a symbol of luck since at least the medieval period.
Nature names for girls have surged in the 21st century, and Clover belongs to a wave that includes Ivy, Willow, Hazel and Sage.
What the name Clover means
Unlike flower names such as Rose or Lily, plant names carry a slightly earthier, less formal energy that appeals to outdoors-minded families.
Clover sits at No. 618 with 482 births in the US. Its peak is 2024 at No. 618 with 482 births, meaning the name is at its all-time high right now and entering the charts for the first time with real momentum.
In literature Clover appears as a character in George Orwell’s Animal Farm (1945), a gentle mare who represents the working class. The name also features in Susan Coolidge’s What Katy Did series (1872), where Clover is Katy’s younger sister.
The name begins with a hard cl- cluster that immediately softens through the oh vowel and the liquid v, ending on a gentle -er. That arc from crisp to soft gives it a satisfying texture in 2 syllables.
The luck associations of the 4-leaf clover give the name a built-in positive symbolism that requires no explanation. Parents drawn to Clover often cite this cheerful connotation alongside its botanical freshness.
In the UK Clover has charted modestly, and it appears in Australia and New Zealand as well. Its crossover appeal lies in being recognisable as an English word while feeling unexpected enough as a name to retain a sense of discovery.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Clover
Clover - similar names
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