What does Spence mean and where does it come from?
Spence is an English surname that has been used as a first name, particularly in the United Kingdom and other English-speaking territories. It is derived from the Old French word 'espencier', which referred to a steward or butler, especially in medieval times. The name began to gain popularity as a
Cultural significance
Spence has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of steward; butler.
Peak popularity
Reached #1215 in 1970 — currently #13966 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Spence?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Spence?
Spence works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Spence Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Spence John
One syllable · timeless choice
Spence Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Spence Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Spence Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Spence Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Spence right now?
Falling — down 3321 spots — currently #13966 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2024 | #13966 | 5 | ▼ down 3321 · -29% births |
| 2023 | #10645 | 7 | ▼ down 1767 · -22% births |
| 2022 | #8878 | 9 | ▲ up 3059 · +50% births |
| 2021 | #11937 | 6 | ▲ up 46 · +20% births |
| 2020 | #11983 | 5 | ▼ down 2375 · -29% births |
| 2015 | #9608 | 7 | ▼ down 1430 · -22% births |
| 2010 | #8178 | 9 | ▼ down 3848 · -55% births |
| 2005 | #4330 | 20 | ▲ up 732 · +43% births |
| 2000 | #5062 | 14 | ▲ up 900 · +56% births |
| 1995 | #5962 | 9 | ▼ down 2995 · -57% births |
| 1990 | #2967 | 21 | ▲ up 1792 · +163% births |
| 1985 | #4759 | 8 | ▼ down 1632 · -43% births |
| 1980 | #3127 | 14 | ▲ up 874 · +75% births |
| 1975 | #4001 | 8 | ▼ down 2786 · -83% births |
| 1970 | #1215 | 47 | — |
The story of Spence
Spence entered American naming records in 1902 and has been in use for over 122 years. With 1,085 total births recorded, Spence remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2379 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #10645 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Spence in 1970:
Spence by decade
Spence peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 43 | |
| 1920s | 43 | |
| 1930s | 47 | |
| 1940s | 81 | |
| 1950s | 97 | |
| 1960s | 134 | |
| 1970s ★ | 187 | |
| 1980s | 136 | |
| 1990s | 118 | |
| 2000s | 125 | |
| 2010s | 64 | |
| 2020s | 10 | |
💎With 1,085 total births, Spence is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Spence?
What names sound and feel like Spence?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Spence also consider these
Common questions about the name Spence
What does the name Spence mean?
Spence means "Steward; Butler" — a name rooted in English 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 Spence?
Spence is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Spence?
Spence originates from English tradition. English 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 Spence?
Spence is a one-syllable name pronounced SPENS. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Spence sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Spence flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Spence ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.