Horace is a name of Latin origin, derived from the name Horatius, which was borne by a number of figures in Roman mythology and history. The most famous of these was Publius Horatius Cocles, a legendary hero who defended Rome against the Etruscans at the Battle of the Sacco in 507 BC.
The name Horace is also associated with the Latin poet Quintus Horatius Flaccus (65-8 BC), commonly known as Horace. He was a prominent figure of the Augustan Age and one of the greatest Roman lyric poets, whose works are still studied today.
In terms of meaning, Horace means "timekeeper" or "hour." This is derived from the Latin word "hora," which means "hour."
Throughout history, the name Horace has been associated with intelligence, creativity, and leadership. It has been borne by many notable figures throughout history, including several U.S. presidents and prominent literary figures.
Today, Horace remains a relatively uncommon but distinguished name choice. It is often associated with intellectual pursuits, artistic talent, and historical significance. Despite its Latin origins, the name Horace has also gained popularity in other cultures, particularly among those with an appreciation for classical history and literature.
The name Horace has been given to a total of 73 babies in the United States over the years, with its popularity fluctuating annually. Here's an overview of its usage:
- The name was first given to six newborns in 1915.
- In 1916, eight babies were named Horace.
- After a slight dip in 1917, nine boys received this name in 1918.
- We see another decrease with only six births in 1923, followed by seven in 1924.
- The next peak occurs between 1926 and 1928, with five, eight, and five births respectively.
- There's a gap of several years before Horace reappears on the birth records, with eight births in 1935 and five in 1937.
- Finally, six more boys were named Horace in 1952.
These statistics illustrate how the popularity of the name Horace has waxed and waned over time in the United States. Despite its fluctuations, it remains a distinctive and unique choice for parents looking to give their child an uncommon name with historical significance.