Nance is a unique and distinctive given name of Cornish origin. It is derived from the Cornish word "nans," which means "nice" or "pleasant." The name Nance is believed to have been popularized in the late 19th century, following the publication of a novel called "A Life for a Life" by R.D. Blackmore. In this novel, one of the main characters was named Nance, and her memorable portrayal in the story contributed to the name's rise in popularity.
Historically, Nance has been primarily used as a female given name, although it can be used for individuals of any gender who are drawn to its unique sound and meaning. It is often associated with kindness, pleasantness, and positivity, reflecting the name's origins and meaning.
Today, Nance remains a rare and distinctive name, but its Cornish roots and positive connotations continue to make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child. Despite its rarity, the name Nance has been carried by notable individuals throughout history, such as Nance O'Neal, an American actress known for her work in films like "The Visitor" and "Cool Hand Luke." These examples demonstrate that while Nance may not be a common name, it is still capable of making its mark on the world.
The name Nance has seen a varied number of births in the United States over the past century, with notable fluctuations from year to year.
From 1913 to 1922, the number of births ranged between five and nine annually. However, there was a significant increase in 1928, with thirteen births recorded that year. This trend continued into the 1930s, with the highest number of Nance births reaching twenty-three in 1932.
The post-World War II era saw a peak in Nance births, with twenty-nine births recorded in 1946 and thirty-two in 1947. This trend continued through the 1950s, with consistently high numbers of Nance births each year, ranging from nineteen to thirty-one.
However, there was a decline in Nance births in the late 1950s and early 1960s, with the lowest point being six births in 1964. This trend continued into the 1970s, with only seven births recorded in 1970.
Overall, there were a total of 761 Nance births in the United States over this period. Despite fluctuations, it's clear that the name Nance has been consistently present in the US birth records for the past century.