The name Marquis is of French origin and means "nobleman" or "lord." It comes from the word "marquis," which was originally used to denote a rank in the nobility below that of a duke but above that of an earl or count.
The use of the name Marquis dates back to medieval France, where it was often used as a title rather than a given name. However, over time, it began to be used as a personal name as well, particularly among families of noble descent.
In some cases, the name Marquis may have been chosen for its association with nobility and wealth, while in others, it may simply have been passed down through generations within a particular family.
Today, Marquis is still considered a unique and distinguished name, often given to boys. While it remains relatively uncommon compared to other names, it continues to be popular among parents seeking a strong and meaningful name for their child.
Overall, the name Marquis has a rich history and carries with it a sense of nobility and prestige that makes it an appealing choice for many families.
The name Marquis has been used consistently but not excessively for newborns in the United States over the past few decades. Between 1973 and 1992, there were a total of 154 babies named Marquis, with the number of births per year varying from as low as 5 to as high as 18.
The name's popularity appears to have peaked in the late 1980s and early 1990s. During this period, there were more than 10 births each year for five consecutive years, with a particularly notable spike in 1987 when 18 babies were named Marquis.
However, the name's popularity has since declined, with fewer than 10 births per year occurring from 1990 onwards. This could indicate that the name is now considered somewhat dated or that parents are seeking more unique and contemporary names for their children.
Overall, while Marquis was once a reasonably popular choice for baby boys in the United States, its usage has tailed off in recent years, suggesting that it may have fallen out of fashion among modern parents.