Frances is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the male name Francis, which means "free man" or "bold". The name Francis has been associated with Saint Francis of Assisi, an Italian Catholic friar and preacher who lived in the late Middle Ages.
The name Frances was first used as a given name for girls during the 14th century. It became popular during the 16th century, particularly among English-speaking populations. The name Frances was often used as a feminine form of Francis, but it can also be considered a separate name with its own unique history.
One notable historical figure named Frances was Queen consort Frances of France (1890-1924), who was the wife of King Alfonso XIII of Spain. Another famous Frances was American civil rights activist and journalist Frances Beale (1936- ), who played a significant role in the Black Power movement during the 1960s.
Today, Frances continues to be used as a given name for girls, although its popularity has varied over time and across different cultures. It is often associated with qualities such as independence, strength, and courage, reflecting its meaning of "free man" or "bold". However, it is important to note that the name does not necessarily dictate an individual's personality traits or life path.
In literature and popular culture, Frances has been used as a character name in various works. For example, the main character in the children's book series "Brave Little Frances" by Harry Bliss is named Frances. Additionally, the protagonist of the novel "Frances" by Danielle Steel is named Frances, who struggles with addiction and redemption throughout the story.
Overall, Frances is a classic feminine given name with a rich history and meaningful origins. While its popularity may have fluctuated over time, it continues to be a beloved choice for parents seeking a strong and unique name for their daughters.
Here are some interesting statistics about the name Frances:
In the United States, between 1880 and 2021, there were a total of 5009 babies named Frances.
The popularity of the name Frances fluctuated over time. In the late 19th century, around 12-20 babies were named Frances each year. However, in the early 20th century, its popularity started to rise significantly, with around 72 births in 1914 and peaking at 140 births in 1928.
After the 1930s, the name's popularity began to decline. From the 1950s onwards, fewer than 60 babies were named Frances each year on average. The lowest point was reached in the late 1960s and early 1970s, with only around 14-27 births per year.
However, in recent years, there has been a slight resurgence in the name's popularity. Between 2015 and 2021, there were approximately 5 births per year on average, with a peak of 10 births in 2020.
In summary, while Frances was once a popular name in the United States, its popularity has since waned. However, it remains a classic choice for parents looking to give their daughter a timeless name.