What does Quentin mean and where does it come from?
Quentin is traditionally a male name of Latin origin meaning 'the fifth'. However, it has seen use as a female name as well, particularly in the United States, where naming conventions are less rigid. The name is derived from 'Quintus', a common Roman name. Its use as a feminine name is increasing a
Cultural significance
Quentin has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the fifth.
Peak popularity
Reached #4410 in 1919 — currently #769 in the US.
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Related Reading
France-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Quentin?
Quentin works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Quentin Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Quentin Rose
Floral · soft ending
Quentin Mae
Sweet · timeless
Quentin Claire
French influence · crisp
Quentin Jane
Literary · strong
Quentin Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Quentin right now?
Falling — down 115 spots — currently #769 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #769 | 335 | ▼ down 115 · -20% births |
| 2022 | #654 | 420 | ▼ down 115 · -23% births |
| 2021 | #539 | 546 | ▲ up 14006 · +9000% births |
| 2015 | #14545 | 6 | ▲ up 2016 · +20% births |
| 2005 | #16561 | 5 | ▼ down 6952 · -37% births |
| 1995 | #9609 | 8 | ▼ down 1193 · +14% births |
| 1985 | #8416 | 7 | ▼ down 917 · -12% births |
| 1980 | #7499 | 8 | ▼ down 934 |
| 1975 | #6565 | 8 | ▲ up 1570 · +60% births |
| 1970 | #8135 | 5 | — |
The story of Quentin
Quentin entered American naming records in 1919 and has been in use for over 105 years. A total of 41,758 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8135 in 1970 to #769 in 2023. Quentin is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Quentin in 1919:
Quentin by decade
Quentin peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 51 | |
| 1910s | 1,313 | |
| 1920s | 1,612 | |
| 1930s | 746 | |
| 1940s | 983 | |
| 1950s | 1,242 | |
| 1960s | 1,836 | |
| 1970s | 4,366 | |
| 1980s | 6,412 | |
| 1990s | 8,128 | |
| 2000s ★ | 8,410 | |
| 2010s | 6,142 | |
| 2020s | 517 | |
What are good nicknames for Quentin?
What names sound and feel like Quentin?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Quentin also consider these
How is Quentin written in other languages?
Gender variants of Quentin
Common questions about the name Quentin
What does the name Quentin mean?
Quentin means "the fifth" — a name rooted in France 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 Quentin?
Quentin is currently ranked #769 as a baby 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 Quentin?
Quentin originates from France tradition. France 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 Quentin?
Quentin is a two-syllable name pronounced K W EH1 N T IH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Quentin more of a girl or boy name?
Quentin is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.