The name probably originated in the 14th century and was derived from the old Czech verbs klabati ('to cut down') or klábati ('to chatter').

[2] The longest tributaries of the Klabava are:[3] The most important settlement on the river is the town of Rokycany.

The largest of them is the fishpond Hořejší Padrťský rybník with an area of 78.8 ha (195 acres), supplied by several small tributaries of the Klabava.

Today it is used to ensure minimum flow of the river, for recreation, fishing and flood protection.

The Klabava is occasionally suitable for river tourism, but only in spring or after heavy rains.