Pearce is an English surname and given name of Norman origin, derived from the Middle English personal name Perot, which was introduced into England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest of 1066. The name Perot is thought to have been a diminutive of Peter, meaning "rock" or "stone." Over time, Perot evolved into Pearce in English-speaking countries.
The name Pearce was initially used as a surname, but it began to be used as a given name in the 19th century. Today, it is more commonly used as a given name than a surname in many parts of the world.
Notable individuals with the name Pearce include the Australian actor Guy Pearce, known for his roles in films such as "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert" and "Memento," and the American football coach and player Tommie F. Pearce, who played for the Green Bay Packers in the 1960s.
In literature, the name Pearce is featured in works by notable authors such as Charles Dickens ("The Pickwick Papers") and Rudyard Kipling ("Kim"). In both cases, the character's full name is Samuel Pearce.
Overall, the name Pearce has a strong historical foundation and a diverse range of associations, from its Norman origins to its more recent appearances in popular culture. As a given name, it offers a unique and distinctive option for parents seeking a name with a touch of history and individuality.
The name Pearce experienced significant variations in popularity over the past century. While there were no more than 9 births per year from 1912 to 1985, it suddenly became more popular starting in 1985 with a peak of 45 births in 2010. Since then, the number of annual births has fluctuated between 20 and 43, with an average of around 31 births per year over the past decade. Overall, there have been a total of 1206 births named Pearce from 1912 to 2023.