Temperance is a unique and distinctive female given name of Latin origin. Derived from the Latin word "temperantia," which means moderation or self-control, Temperance embodies qualities of balance and restraint. In Roman mythology, Temperantia was one of the four cardinal virtues, alongside Prudence, Justice, and Fortitude.
The name Temperance gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century, likely influenced by the temperance movement that advocated for moderation or abstinence from alcohol. However, it is important to note that the name predates this movement and has been used throughout history, often chosen for its virtues and associations with wisdom and self-control.
Historically, Temperance has been a popular choice among religious communities and families who valued moral values and principles. Notable individuals named Temperance include Temperance Judkins, an early settler in Massachusetts during the 17th century, and Temperance "Temp" Tucker, a character in the TV series "The Wire."
While Temperance may not be as common today as it once was, it remains an attractive choice for parents seeking a distinctive name with meaningful roots. Its unique sound and powerful meaning make Temperance a memorable option for those looking to honor virtue and moderation.
The name Temperance has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. While only five babies were given this name in 1916, there was a resurgence of interest in it starting from the late 1970s onwards.
From 1972 to 1983, there were consistently between five and thirteen births each year with the name Temperance. The number of births began to rise more significantly in the mid-1980s, reaching sixty births in 1986 and peaking at ninety births in 1989.
The 1990s saw a further increase in popularity for the name Temperance, with double-digit numbers of births each year. The decade closed with thirteen births in both 1996 and 1997.
The 2000s marked a significant turning point for the name Temperance. There were twenty births in 2006, seventy-eight in 2007, and over one hundred fifty births annually from 2008 onwards. The highest number of births recorded was 323 in 2014.
However, since then, there has been a decrease in the popularity of the name Temperance. In recent years, the number of births with this name has fluctuated between ninety-nine and two hundred thirty-five annually. Even so, with 125 births recorded in 2022 alone, it is evident that Temperance remains a popular choice for parents in the United States.
In total, from 1916 to 2023, there have been 3518 babies born in the United States named Temperance. This demonstrates the enduring appeal of this unique and distinctive name across generations.