What does Curtiss mean and where does it come from?
Curtiss is a variation of the name Curtis, which is derived from the Old French 'curteiz', meaning courteous or polite. The name has been relatively popular in the United States since the 20th century. Notable figures include aviation pioneer Glenn Curtiss.
Cultural significance
Curtiss has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in USA-speaking communities, where it reflects values of meaning 'courteous' or 'polite'.
Peak popularity
Reached #675 in 1943 — currently #12420 in the US.
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Related Reading
USA-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Curtiss?
Curtiss works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Curtiss Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Curtiss Rose
Floral · soft ending
Curtiss Mae
Sweet · timeless
Curtiss Claire
French influence · crisp
Curtiss Jane
Literary · strong
Curtiss Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Curtiss right now?
Falling — down 5927 spots — currently #12420 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2020 | #11974 | 5 | ▼ down 5927 · -64% births |
| 2010 | #6047 | 14 | ▲ up 3115 · +100% births |
| 2005 | #9162 | 7 | ▼ down 3846 · -46% births |
| 2000 | #5316 | 13 | ▼ down 491 · +8% births |
| 1995 | #4825 | 12 | ▼ down 2607 · -62% births |
| 1990 | #2218 | 32 | ▼ down 537 · -14% births |
| 1985 | #1681 | 37 | ▼ down 112 · -3% births |
| 1980 | #1569 | 38 | ▼ down 217 · -10% births |
| 1975 | #1352 | 42 | ▼ down 418 · -42% births |
| 1970 | #934 | 73 | ▲ up 100 · +43% births |
| 1965 | #1034 | 51 | ▼ down 222 · -43% births |
| 1960 | #812 | 89 | ▼ down 108 · -18% births |
| 1955 | #704 | 109 | ▲ up 107 · +54% births |
| 1950 | #811 | 71 | ▼ down 87 · -1% births |
| 1945 | #724 | 72 | — |
The story of Curtiss
Curtiss has been a beloved American name for over 128 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1896. With 5,068 total births recorded, Curtiss remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1292 in 1910, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #11974 in 2020.
Names that peaked alongside Curtiss in 1943:
Curtiss by decade
Curtiss peaked in the 1940s. See all 1940s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 6 | |
| 1900s | 16 | |
| 1910s | 236 | |
| 1920s | 475 | |
| 1930s | 586 | |
| 1940s | 781 | |
| 1950s ★ | 948 | |
| 1960s | 791 | |
| 1970s | 462 | |
| 1980s | 379 | |
| 1990s | 232 | |
| 2000s | 94 | |
| 2010s | 57 | |
| 2020s | 5 | |
💎With 5,068 total births, Curtiss is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Curtiss?
What names sound and feel like Curtiss?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Curtiss also consider these
Common questions about the name Curtiss
What does the name Curtiss mean?
Curtiss means "meaning 'courteous' or 'polite'" — a name rooted in USA tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Curtiss?
Curtiss is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Curtiss?
Curtiss originates from USA tradition. USA names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Curtiss a common or rare name?
Curtiss is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Curtiss?
Curtiss naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.