Cortez is a unique and distinctive given name of Spanish origin. It is derived from the surname Cortez, which is an occupational name for someone who was a steward or overseer on an estate. The name Cortez is associated with the famous explorer Hernán Cortés, who played a significant role in the Spanish colonization of Mexico.
The meaning of the name Cortez varies depending on its origin and context. In some sources, it is said to mean "courtyard" or "enclosure," which could refer to the oversight role of the original bearer of the surname. However, other sources suggest that the name may have been derived from the Basque given name Kortes, which means "short."
Throughout history, the name Cortez has been associated with notable figures beyond Hernán Cortés. For example, Joséphin Soulary, a French poet who went by the pen name Corysandre Cortez, was known for his exotic and romantic works in the 19th century.
Today, Cortez is still a relatively uncommon given name, but it has gained some popularity in recent years as parents seek unique and meaningful names for their children. It is often used as both a boy's and girl's name, with its Spanish origins and distinctive sound making it appealing to many parents. Despite its rarity, the name Cortez carries a rich history and cultural significance that sets it apart from more common given names.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Cortez has been used consistently but infrequently over the years in the United States. Between 1912 and 1990, there were a total of 89 births with the first name Cortez.
The earliest year listed is 1912, with a single birth that year. The name's popularity fluctuated over the decades, with periods of increased usage followed by declines. For instance, there were four years in the late 1970s and early 1980s (1976, 1980, 1983, and 1986) where at least five births each year bore the name Cortez.
However, the highest frequency of births with this name in any given year was seven, which occurred three times (in 1919, 1924, and 1986). Conversely, the lowest frequency was a single birth, which happened in the earliest year recorded (1912).
Overall, while Cortez is not among the most popular names in the United States, it has seen some degree of consistent usage over the years. It may be considered somewhat unique due to its infrequent but persistent appearance in U.S. birth records during this period.