Horace

“Although traditionally a male name, variants of the name Horace are occasionally used for females”

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 100% boys♀ 0% girls

#977US 2023

1.2kBirths / yr

→Stable

54.3kAll-time births

📅 Since 191400

How to pronounce Horace

HAW·rus

/ˈhɔ.rəs/ · stress on HAW · 2 syllables

“Although traditionally a male name, variants of the name Horace are occasionally used for females”

American origin · Unisex name

What does Horace mean and where does it come from?

Although traditionally a male name, variants of the name Horace are occasionally used for females. The name has its origins in Latin, relating to a person who is a keeper of time or a timekeeper. In ancient Rome, Horace was the name of a revered poet known for his lyric poetry and satirical works. T

Cultural significance

Horace has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of latin.

Peak popularity

Reached #2539 in 1915 — currently #977 in the US.

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How else can you spell Horace?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

Horus

Spelling variant

What middle names flow best with Horace?

Horace works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Horace Grace

How popular is Horace right now?

Holding steady — currently #977 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1915–2023#977 · Top 0.72%

1915

1920

1925

1930

1955

1960

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#977	1,223	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022	#982	1,203	▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021	#987	1,173	▲ up 5425 · +23360% births
1960	#6412	5	▼ down 2018 · -37% births
1955	#4394	8	▲ up 164 · +60% births
1930	#4558	5	▼ down 1770 · -58% births
1925	#2788	12	▲ up 1180 · +71% births
1920	#3968	7	▼ down 1429 · -36% births
1915	#2539	11	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Horace

Best Year2023Rank #977

Peak Count1,223

Average Rank#3067

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1915 - 20239 years

The story of Horace

Horace entered American naming records in 1914 and has been in use for over 110 years. A total of 54,266 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2539 in 1915 to #977 in 2023. Horace is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.

Names that peaked alongside Horace in 1915:

Mary Helen Dorothy Margaret Ruth

Horace by decade

Horace peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	1,650
1890s	1,814
1900s	2,125
1910s	8,512
1920s ★	11,841
1930s	8,172
1940s	6,900
1950s	5,749
1960s	3,151
1970s	1,818
1980s	1,118
1990s	753
2000s	384
2010s	261
2020s	18

What are good nicknames for Horace?

Common

HorHorieHoryAce

What names sound and feel like Horace?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Horace also consider these

Horrace

American · Derived from the

Dorace

American · A variant of

Orace

American · A beloved name

Horice

Czech Republic · Brave

Forace

Unknown · Meaning not clearly

Harace

American · Eager; refers to

Joyace

American · Likely a combination

Royace

American · Regal or royal

How is Horace written in other languages?

Gender variants of Horace

Horatia ANCIENT ROMAN

Common questions about the name Horace

What does the name Horace mean?

Horace means "Latin" — a name rooted in American 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 Horace?

Horace is currently ranked #977 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Horace?

Horace originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How do you pronounce the name Horace?

Horace is a two-syllable name pronounced HH AO1 R AH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Horace a common or rare name?

Horace is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.