noun
Uncommon
Clifton
KLIHF-tuhn
Clifton (noun) means a surname and given name, originally an English place name meaning "town by the cliff.". Example: “He goes by Clifton, after his grandfather.”
noun
1
A surname and given name, originally an English place name meaning "town by the cliff."
"He goes by Clifton, after his grandfather."
How to use Clifton
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA name of English origin, used as both a surname and a first name, and the name of many English towns and suburbs.
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Word forms
- Plural
- Cliftons
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He goes by _____, after his grandfather.
Etymology
From Old English clif ("cliff") plus tun ("town"), literally "town by the cliff."
Frequently asked questions
What does “Clifton” mean?
The word “Clifton” means a surname and given name, originally an English place name meaning "town by the cliff.". In plain terms, a name of English origin, used as both a surname and a first name, and the name of many English towns and suburbs.
How do you pronounce “Clifton”?
“Clifton” is pronounced KLIHF-tuhn (/ˈklɪftən/ in IPA).
How do you use “Clifton” in a sentence?
Here is “Clifton” used in a sentence: “He goes by Clifton, after his grandfather.”
What part of speech is “Clifton”?
“Clifton” is a noun.
Where does the word “Clifton” come from?
The word “Clifton” comes from Old English. From Old English clif ("cliff") plus tun ("town"), literally "town by the cliff.".
Is “Clifton” a common word?
“Clifton” is an uncommon word in modern English.
