All about the name

Nance

Male

« Nance is a distinctive female given name of Cornish origin, meaning "grace" and dating back to the 14th century, popularized by medieval nicknames like Ann or Agnes. Today, it stands independently as an elegant and uncommon name worldwide, associated with Cornwall's culture and folklore such as "The Song of Nance. »

#34495 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Nance is a unique and captivating female given name of Cornish origin. It is derived from the Cornish word "ans" which means "grace". The name Nance has been popular in Cornwall for centuries, with its earliest known use dating back to the 14th century. In medieval times, it was often used as a nickname or diminutive form of names such as Ann or Agnes. However, over time, Nance has evolved into a distinct and independent given name in its own right. The name Nance is often associated with the county of Cornwall itself, where it has been passed down through generations of families for centuries. It is also sometimes linked to the famous Cornish folk song "The Song of Nance," which was written by Robert Hunt in 1859 and tells the tale of a young woman named Nancy or Nance. Despite its historical roots in Cornwall, the name Nance has gained popularity beyond the region and can now be found in various parts of the world. It is considered to be an uncommon yet charming name that embodies elegance and grace, reflecting its Cornish origins.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Nance since 1880

Total births
10
Total since 1880
Peak year
1932
5 births
in 1936
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years