Royce is a name of English origin that has been used for centuries. It is believed to have originated from the Anglo-Saxon word "rēōs," which means "red-haired." Over time, the name evolved and became Royce as we know it today.
The name Royce was popular among Norman nobility during the Middle Ages. It was often given to sons born into wealthy families who had red hair or a reddish complexion. The name gained further prominence when it was adopted by several prominent English families, including the Earls of Northumberland and the Barons Percy.
In literature, the name Royce appears in many works, such as William Shakespeare's play "The Life and Death of King John," where one of the characters is named Sir Richard le Royce. Additionally, the name has been used in various forms of popular culture, including music, movies, and video games.
Despite its English origins, the name Royce has also become popular in other countries around the world. Today, it is often given to boys regardless of their hair color or family lineage. While some people may associate the name with luxurious cars or fine jewelry due to brands like Rolls-Royce, the name's true origin and meaning are rooted in English history and tradition.
The name Royce has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past century in the United States. In the early years of record-keeping, between 1892 and 1907, there were fewer than 10 births each year with the name Royce. However, starting from 1908, there was a noticeable rise in the number of babies named Royce, with 14 births recorded that year.
The trend continued to rise steadily throughout the early and mid-20th century. By 1935, there were 365 births with the name Royce, indicating that the name had gained significant traction among parents-to-be. This popularity persisted through the decades, with over 300 births each year from 1940 to 1960.
However, the late 1960s and early 1970s saw a decline in the number of babies named Royce, with fewer than 200 births per year between 1965 and 1974. This trend continued into the 1980s, with numbers fluctuating but generally remaining below the 200 mark.
Interestingly, from the early 1990s onwards, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of the name Royce. After hitting a low point of just 132 births in 1997, the number of babies named Royce began to rise again. By 2005, there were over 190 births, and this upward trend has continued into the current decade.
In fact, according to recent data, the name Royce is currently enjoying its highest level of popularity in decades. In 2021, there were 807 births with the name Royce, marking a significant increase from previous years. This trend suggests that Royce remains a popular choice among parents in the United States.
In conclusion, while the popularity of the name Royce has fluctuated over time, it has generally been a well-liked and commonly chosen name for babies in the United States. Its recent resurgence in popularity is indicative of its enduring appeal among parents-to-be.