Terence is a masculine given name of Latin origin that means "from Tuscany." It was originally derived from the Latin word "Tuscus," which referred to something or someone originating from Tuscany, a region in central Italy.
The name Terence gained popularity during the Roman Empire and was often used for slaves who were brought into Rome from Tuscany. As Christianity spread throughout Europe, many early saints and martyrs adopted the name Terence, which contributed to its widespread use among Christians.
In literature, one of the most notable references to the name Terence can be found in the plays of Roman comic playwright Titus Maccius Plautus, who wrote about a slave named "Tranio" whose character was later adapted into the French form "Terence." Today, Terence remains a popular given name for boys and has been used by many notable figures throughout history.
Overall, Terence is an attractive and historic name with roots in ancient Roman culture. Its meaning adds to its charm, as it connects directly to one of Italy's most beautiful regions.
The name Terence has been a popular choice for parents in the United States over the past century, with a total of 34,195 births recorded between 1885 and 2023.
The popularity of the name peaked in the mid-20th century, with over 700 births per year between 1954 and 1964. The highest number of Terence births occurred in 1964, with a total of 1,015 newborns sharing this name.
However, the popularity of the name has declined since then, with fewer than 200 births per year recorded between 2013 and 2023. Despite this decrease in popularity, Terence remains a classic and timeless name choice for parents looking to honor tradition while selecting a distinctive moniker for their child.
Overall, the statistics show that while Terence may not be as popular today as it once was, its enduring appeal is evident through its consistent presence among American baby names over more than a century.