Yancy
Yancy is a boy's name of Dutch origin.
Meaning
Son of Jan (John); God is gracious.
Origin and history
Yancy is an Anglicized form derived from the Dutch surname Jansen or Jan, meaning 'son of John'. Historically linked to the colonial term Yankee in early American history, it transitioned into a rare given name. In the United States, it remains an uncommon choice primarily given to boys.
Popularity in the United States
2,433 babies in the United States have been named Yancy since 1880. It ranks #2630 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1916.
States where it is most popular
- CA (27 %)
- TX (20.6 %)
- NY (19.7 %)
- LA (9.7 %)
- AL (4.6 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 11 |
| 1890-1900 | 5 |
| 1900-1910 | 13 |
| 1910-1920 | 65 |
| 1920-1930 | 93 |
| 1930-1940 | 53 |
| 1940-1950 | 86 |
| 1950-1960 | 202 |
| 1960-1970 | 469 |
| 1970-1980 | 568 |
| 1980-1990 | 355 |
| 1990-2000 | 276 |
| 2000-2010 | 152 |
| 2010-2019 | 74 |
| 2020-2029 | 11 |
Famous people named Yancy
- Yancy Butler: Actress
- Yancy Thigpen: Athlete, Football Player
- Yancy Medeiros: Mixed Martial Artist
Fun facts
- Etymologists believe the term Yankee derived from the Dutch name Jan-Kees or the surname Jansen, from which Yancy also originated.
- Like many modern American first names, Yancy transitioned from an English and Dutch family surname into a given name.