Roch is a masculine given name of French origin and meaning "rest" or "relaxation." It is derived from the verb "rocher," which means "to rock" or "to swing." In some cases, Roch may also be interpreted as a short form of longer names such as Rocksawan or Rockfeller.
The name Roch has a rich history that dates back to medieval times. Saint Roch was a popular saint in France during the Middle Ages, and his name became quite common among French Christians who sought his patronage and protection against the plague. It is believed that Saint Roch was born into a wealthy family in France during the 14th century, but he abandoned his privileged life to become a pilgrim and devoted himself to caring for those afflicted with the disease.
Over time, the name Roch became associated with courage, compassion, and devotion due to the example set by Saint Roch. Today, the name is still popular among French speakers and continues to be given to boys in honor of the saint's legacy.
Despite its historical significance, Roch remains a somewhat uncommon name outside of France. However, those who bear this name can take pride in their connection to a figure who embodied selflessness and kindness during a time of great hardship. Overall, Roch is a unique and meaningful name that carries a rich heritage and a powerful message about the importance of compassion and care for others.
The name Roch has been a unique choice for parents in the United States over the years, with a total of 244 babies named Roch since 1927. The most popular year for the name was 1957, with 28 births. However, the name has seen fluctuating popularity throughout the decades, with some years having as few as 6 births (in 1927, 1949, and 2016). Despite these fluctuations, Roch remains a distinctive choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child. It's interesting to note that even in recent years, such as in 2020, there were still 8 births with the name Roch, showing that this name continues to be chosen by parents today.