Town near a cliff
Derived from Old English elements 'clif' (cliff or slope) and 'tun' (settlement or enclosure). It originally served as a habitational surname for families living near a prominent geographical drop.
Less common today
Clifton isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #472 in 1990.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Oscar-nominated actor of the 1940s and 50s
Grammy-winning 'King of Zydeco' accordionist
Intellectual, editor, and radio personality
Actor and songwriter known for the TV show Amen
Prolific character actor
