Martese is an uncommon, yet captivating first name of African American origin. It's derived from the Latin word 'Martinus', meaning 'of Mars'. This name was popularized in the United States during the mid-20th century, gaining traction as a distinctive choice for parents seeking unique names for their children.
"Martese saw a peak in popularity between 1991 and 1996 with 12 to 15 births each year. After 2003, the name's usage declined significantly, with fewer than 10 births per year."