Marquez is a name of Spanish origin, derived from the surname Márquez, which is an occupational name for a maker or seller of markes (markets). The name has been in use since the Middle Ages and was originally used as a surname before becoming popular as a given name.
The meaning of Marquez is not explicitly defined by any specific word or concept. However, like many surnames that have become given names, it carries with it a sense of history and tradition. It is often associated with Spain and Spanish culture, and may evoke images of vibrant markets and rich culinary traditions.
The name Marquez has been used throughout Spanish-speaking countries for centuries, but it gained popularity outside of Spain in the 20th century. Today, it is recognized as a unisex given name, though it is more commonly used for boys than girls.
Notable individuals with the name Marquez include the American poet and civil rights activist Langston Hughes (born James Mercer Langston Hughes), who went by his middle name Marquez in some circles, and the Mexican-American author Carlos Marquez, whose work explores themes of identity, immigration, and cultural heritage.
"The name Marquez experienced significant growth in popularity from the late 1970s to the mid-1990s, with a notable peak of 258 births in 1998. However, it has been declining since then, reaching an all-time low of 45 births in 2022 and 2023."