Meaning, origin, history
Vance is a unique and distinctive name of English origin. It is derived from the surname Vance, which is an Anglicized form of the Scottish Gaelic name "Mac an t-Saoir," meaning "son of the carpenter." The name has been used as both a first name and a last name throughout history.
The earliest known use of the name Vance as a given name can be traced back to the 17th century in England. It was initially more common among the nobility, but over time it became more widespread and is now found worldwide.
One notable figure with the name Vance was Sir John Vance (1826-1904), a British army officer who served in the Crimean War and the Indian Mutiny. He was knighted for his bravery during the Second Anglo-Afghan War.
Today, Vance continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet strong-sounding name for their sons. It has also gained some popularity as a girls' name in recent years, although it remains more commonly used for boys.
In summary, Vance is an English name with Scottish Gaelic origins, meaning "son of the carpenter." It has a rich history and has been used by notable figures throughout time. Despite its unique sound, Vance is now widely recognized and continues to be chosen as a first name by parents around the world.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Vance since 1880
Total births
26,583
Total since 1880
Peak year
1969
555 births
in 2023
236
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+5%
↗
vs previous 5 years