Cortez
Cortez is a boy's name of Spanish origin.
Meaning
Courteous or refined; belonging to the court.
Origin and history
Cortez originated as a Spanish surname derived from the Old French and Latin roots associated with polite or courtly behavior. Although historically used primarily as a family name, it has established usage as a masculine given name in the United States. It offers a strong, distinct sound with historical resonance.
Popularity in the United States
10,899 babies in the United States have been named Cortez since 1880. It ranks #1142 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1320.
States where it is most popular
- IL (17.4 %)
- MI (12 %)
- MO (9.4 %)
- TN (7.6 %)
- GA (7.4 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 5 |
| 1890-1900 | 0 |
| 1900-1910 | 5 |
| 1910-1920 | 100 |
| 1920-1930 | 118 |
| 1930-1940 | 129 |
| 1940-1950 | 117 |
| 1950-1960 | 228 |
| 1960-1970 | 378 |
| 1970-1980 | 814 |
| 1980-1990 | 1,814 |
| 1990-2000 | 2,669 |
| 2000-2010 | 2,033 |
| 2010-2019 | 1,854 |
| 2020-2029 | 635 |
Famous people named Cortez
- Cortez Kennedy: Football Player, Athlete
Fun facts
- Cortez evolved from a nickname for a polite or courtly person before becoming a hereditary surname.
- Cortez has maintained steady, moderate usage as a given name in the United States throughout the 20th and 21st centuries.