Spence
Spence is a boy's name of English origin.
Meaning
Dispenser of provisions or steward.
Origin and history
Spence is an English name originally derived as a occupational surname for a dispenser or caretaker of provisions. It is closely related to the name Spencer and has historically been used as a rare given name in the United States. In recent years, it remains a uncommon choice for boys, maintaining a crisp, traditional feel.
Popularity in the United States
1,114 babies in the United States have been named Spence since 1880. It ranks #3577 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1894.
States where it is most popular
- TN (33.3 %)
- CA (16.7 %)
- GA (16.7 %)
- LA (16.7 %)
- TX (16.7 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 0 |
| 1890-1900 | 0 |
| 1900-1910 | 5 |
| 1910-1920 | 43 |
| 1920-1930 | 43 |
| 1930-1940 | 47 |
| 1940-1950 | 81 |
| 1950-1960 | 97 |
| 1960-1970 | 134 |
| 1970-1980 | 187 |
| 1980-1990 | 137 |
| 1990-2000 | 118 |
| 2000-2010 | 125 |
| 2010-2019 | 64 |
| 2020-2029 | 33 |
Fun facts
- Spence originated in Middle English as a shortened form of 'Spencer', referring to a person who managed the buttery or larder of a household.
- The root traces back through Old French 'despense' to the Latin 'dispendere', meaning to weigh out or pay out.