The name Pierce is of English origin and has a strong and distinguished sound to it. It is derived from the Middle English word "Pierces," which was an occupational surname for a piercer or maker of holes, such as those used in sieves or strainers. The name may also have been a nickname given to someone who had physical features that resembled a hole or piercing, such as a dimple or freckle.
The name Pierce has a long history and can be traced back to the Middle Ages in England. It was often associated with the nobility and many members of the aristocracy bore the name. One notable example is Sir William Pierce, who was an English knight and poet during the reign of King Henry VIII.
Over time, the name Pierce has spread beyond its original English roots and can now be found in countries around the world. It has also evolved into various spelling variations, such as Pierce, Pierse, Pyers, and Pearce.
Despite its origins, the name Pierce is not particularly common today. According to the Social Security Administration in the United States, it ranked #739 in popularity for boys' names in 2020. However, this does not detract from its unique charm and timeless appeal.
In summary, Pierce is an English surname-turned-first-name with a rich history and a strong, distinctive sound. Its origins are occupational or related to physical features, but it has since become associated with nobility and has spread beyond its English roots to be used around the world.
The name Pierce has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past century in the United States. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the number of births with the name Pierce fluctuated between 5 and 76 per year, with an average of around 30 births annually.
However, starting from the 1980s, there was a notable increase in the number of babies named Pierce. In 1982, there were 27 births with this name, which rose to 55 in 1983 and peaked at 648 in 2015. Since then, the popularity has stabilized around 500-600 births per year.
As of 2022, the total number of births with the name Pierce in the United States has reached approximately 19,090 since record keeping began. This steady growth over time demonstrates that the name Pierce continues to be a popular choice among parents for their children's names.