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Terrance Boy

Popularity: #773 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationTER-uhns / /ˈtɛr.əns/

Latin; Irish

Meaning

Latin: to pull; Irish: rocky land

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Terrance is derived from the Latin name "Terentius," which is believed to be rooted in the word "terra," meaning "earth" or "land." The name Terentius was borne by a prominent Roman family, and it became more widely recognized through the works of the Roman playwright Terence (Publius Terentius Afer), who lived in the 2nd century BCE. His comedies were influential in the development of Roman literature and later European drama, contributing to the name's enduring legacy.

As the name transitioned into various languages, it evolved into forms such as "Terence" in English and "Terrance" as an alternative spelling. The name was popularized in the English-speaking world during the Middle Ages, particularly through the influence of saints and scholars. One notable figure is Saint Terence, a Christian martyr whose feast day is celebrated in some traditions, further embedding the name within ecclesiastical contexts.

The name Terrance has been associated with qualities such as strength and stability, resonating with its etymological roots connected to the earth. This connection to the land has made it a symbol of reliability and groundedness in various cultural narratives. Additionally, diminutive forms like "Terry" have emerged, reflecting a more familiar and affectionate usage of the name throughout history. Overall, Terrance carries a rich historical and cultural significance, rooted in ancient Roman heritage and sustained through literary and religious traditions.

Trend Summary

The name Terrance has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Terrence
  • Terry

International Variants

  • Terence (English)
  • Térence (French)
  • Terenzio (Italian)

Famous people named Terrance

Terrance Howard is an actor best known for Hustle & Flow, Iron Man, and Empire.

Terrance Dicks is a writer best known for his work on Doctor Who and the Target novelizations.

Fictional characters named Terrance

Terrance is a fictional character from the animated television series South Park. He is one half of the duo Terrance and Phillip, known for their crude humor and comedic antics.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Terrance was first seen in the United States in 1895. Terrance has ranked as high as #367 nationally, which occurred in 1988, and has been most popular in Illinois, New York, Michigan, California, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Terrance has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Terrance (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 14
13%
FL 13
12%
GA 12
11%
NY 10
9%
IL 10
9%
OH 9
8%
TN 9
8%
CA 8
8%
MI 8
8%
NC 7
7%
IN 6
6%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18955
19106
19115
191211
19138
19147
191512
191618
191718
191815
191927
192023
192130
192224
192323
192419
192528
192630
192745
192833
192934
193045
193142
193257
193356
193495
1935102
1936136
1937147
1938186
1939254
1940254
1941300
1942394
1943462
1944472
1945459
1946630
1947791
1948866
1949829
1950953
1951913
1952902
1953965
19541,120
19551,142
19561,056
19571,039
1958917
1959827
1960725
1961757
1962745
1963809
19641,120
1965946
1966962
1967989
19681,023
1969982
19701,178
19711,100
19721,109
19731,187
19741,067
19751,179
19761,199
19771,237
19781,283
19791,346
19801,379
19811,276
19821,267
19831,194
19841,214
19851,188
19861,134
19871,133
19881,424
19891,361
19901,223
19911,347
19921,275
19931,058
1994992
1995840
1996731
1997713
1998680
1999688
2000628
2001580
2002563
2003552
2004535
2005562
2006583
2007569
2008512
2009562
2010446
2011428
2012435
2013409
2014365
2015377
2016332
2017307
2018277
2019230
2020225
2021203
2022180
2023155
2024151