Marques is a unique and distinctive given name of Spanish origin. It is derived from the Spanish word "marca," which means "mark" or "brand." The name Marques is believed to have been coined as a surname initially, referring to someone who worked with marks or brands in cattle farming.
The name Marques has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. In Spain and Portugal, it was often given to children born into families with a coat of arms or a distinguished lineage. The name became popularized during the Renaissance period when many noble families chose to use it as their surname. Over time, Marques evolved from being a surname to becoming a given name in its own right.
Today, Marques is still relatively uncommon compared to other names but has gained some popularity in recent years. It is often associated with individuals who are independent and confident, with a unique perspective on life. However, it's essential to note that the personality traits of people named Marques vary greatly, as names do not define an individual's character.
In terms of pronunciation, Marques is typically pronounced as /ˈmɑːrkəsi/. The name can be used for both boys and girls, although it is more commonly given to males. It has several variations and related names, such as Marcus, Mark, Marco, and Markus.
Overall, the name Marques is a strong and distinctive choice with Spanish roots and a rich historical background. Its unique sound and meaning make it an attractive option for parents looking for a memorable name for their child.
The name Marques has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the decades in the United States. In the early years, from 1952 to 1970, there were fewer than 10 births per year with this name on average. However, starting in 1974, there was a notable increase in its usage, with over 30 births per year.
The name reached its peak popularity between the late 1970s and early 1980s, with a high of 350 births in 1984. This trend continued into the mid-1980s, with around 200 to 300 births per year until 1989.
However, from the early 1990s onwards, there was a steady decline in the popularity of the name Marques. The number of births dropped below 200 per year and continued to decrease steadily over time. By the late 2010s, there were fewer than 50 births per year with this name.
In recent years, from 2020 to 2023, the popularity of Marques has seen a slight resurgence, with around 20 to 40 births per year. Despite this increase, it still remains significantly less popular compared to its peak in the mid-1980s.
Overall, while Marques was once a relatively popular name in the United States, its usage has since declined over time and currently ranks among less commonly chosen names for newborn boys.