Traci is a unique and distinctive name of American origin. It is essentially a variant spelling of the traditional feminine name Tracey, which has been in use for centuries. The name Tracey is believed to have originated from the medieval English surname Tracy, derived from the Norman French word 'trahir', meaning 'to betray'. However, it's important to note that Traci does not directly share this etymological background.
The name Traci first gained popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, coinciding with the rise of feminism and the women's liberation movement. It was often used as a unisex name during this period, reflecting the societal shift towards gender equality. However, it has since been predominantly associated with females.
In terms of popularity, Traci peaked in usage around 1970 when it reached its highest rank at number 253 on the Social Security Administration's list of most popular baby names for girls in the United States. Despite its decline in popularity since then, it remains a recognizable and cherished name among those born during its heyday.
Today, Traci continues to be used as a given name, although its usage has significantly declined from its peak decades ago. It is often chosen by parents who appreciate its distinctive sound and spelling, as well as its historical connection to the feminist movement of the past century. Overall, Traci is a unique and captivating name with a distinct American origin story.
The name "Traci" has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1945 and 1970, the number of babies named Traci increased dramatically, from just 7 births in 1945 to a peak of 3854 births in 1970. This trend continued into the late 1970s, with over 2000 babies being named Traci each year between 1972 and 1978.
However, starting from the early 1980s, the popularity of the name began to decline steadily. By 1990, there were only 516 births with the name Traci, and this number continued to decrease over the following decades. In recent years, the name has become quite rare, with fewer than 20 babies named Traci each year since 2014.
Despite the decline in popularity, "Traci" remains a name with a rich history and a significant presence in American culture, having been given to over 52,000 babies across several decades. Its unique spelling and sound have made it a memorable choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet approachable name for their daughters.