The name Terrence carries a certain classic appeal. But how popular is the name Terrence today, and what’s its story? Let’s delve into the meaning, popularity, and similar names to uncover everything you need to know about this enduring moniker.
The Meaning of Terrence
While the provided content doesn’t explicitly state the meaning of Terrence, it is generally accepted to mean "smooth" This meaning originates from the Latin name Terentius. It’s a name that suggests a gentle and agreeable nature. The meaning of the name adds to the name’s classic appeal.
Terrence Name Popularity: A Historical Perspective
The provided data offers a detailed look at the popularity of the name Terrence in the United States, tracked by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Here’s a breakdown of the trends:
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Early 20th Century (1910-1930): Terrence was relatively uncommon in the early decades. It wasn’t consistently ranked, and the number of births was very low.
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The Rise (1930s-1970s): Popularity began to steadily climb in the 1930s, reaching a peak in the mid-20th century. The name enjoyed significant popularity from the 1940s through the 1970s, consistently ranking within the top 200 names for boys. The peak years seem to be 1970, when it was ranked 187, with 1439 births.
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The Decline (1980s-Present): Since the 1980s, the name has experienced a gradual decline in popularity. While still used, it’s far less common than it once was. In recent years (2010-2023), the name has seen a rank between 500 and 1500. In 2023, it was ranked 1426, with only 78 births.
Key Takeaways from the Popularity Data:
- Peak Popularity: The mid-20th century represents the golden age for the name Terrence.
- Modern Usage: While less common now, Terrence remains a recognizable and respected name.
- Regional Variations: The provided data includes a chart specifically for the District of Columbia (DC). The data shows that the name was most popular in the 1940s through the 1980s in DC. This suggests that local trends can differ from national trends.
Alternatives and Similar Names
If you’re drawn to the sound and feel of Terrence, but are looking for variations or alternatives, consider these options, based on the provided data:
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Names that Sound Like Terrence:
- Tarrence (Latin)
- Terrance (Latin, meaning "smooth")
- Terronce (Latin)
- Torrence (Irish, meaning "little hills")
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Names Similar to Terrence:
- Darrence (American)
- Derrance (American)
- Larrence (Latin, "from Laurentum")
- Lorrence (Latin, "from Laurentum")
- Tarrance (Latin)
- Torence (Irish, "little hills")
- Torrance (Irish, "little hills")
These similar names share a similar sound and feel, offering slight variations on the classic Terrence.
The Enduring Appeal of Terrence
Despite its decline in recent popularity, Terrence remains a solid and respectable name. Its classic sound, combined with its relatively common usage in the mid-20th century, makes it a familiar and comforting choice. For parents seeking a name that is both traditional and unique, Terrence could be a perfect fit.