“steward, dispenser of provisions” — Associated with someone who was in charge of provisions or a stewa
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 96% boys♀ 4% girls
#362US 2023
902Births / yr
↓Falling
123.7kAll-time births
📅 Since 192200.02% of births at peak
How to pronounce Spencer
SPENS·er
/ˈspɛns.ɝ/ · stress on SPENS · 2 syllables
“steward, dispenser of provisions”
Associated with someone who was in charge of provisions or a stewa · American origin
What does Spencer mean and where does it come from?
Originally a surname, Spencer is derived from the Old French 'despensier', meaning 'to dispense' and was historically associated with someone who was in charge of provisions or a steward. While it is more commonly known as a male name, its use for females has risen in recent times. It's also recogni
Cultural significance
Spencer has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of steward, dispenser of provisions.
Declining — down 24 spots — currently #362 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1950–2023#362 · Top 0.27%
1960
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#362
902
▼ down 24 · -9% births
2022
#338
988
▼ down 23 · -6% births
2021
#315
1,049
▲ up 728 · +341% births
2020
#1043
238
▲ up 48
2015
#1091
238
▲ up 1885 · +318% births
2010
#2976
57
▲ up 834 · +50% births
2005
#3810
38
▼ down 2052 · -62% births
2000
#1758
99
▼ down 421 · -20% births
1995
#1337
123
▼ down 114 · -10% births
1990
#1223
137
▲ up 3430 · +756% births
1985
#4653
16
▼ down 314 · -6% births
1980
#4339
17
▲ up 3670 · +183% births
1975
#8009
6
▼ down 2176 · -25% births
1970
#5833
8
▲ up 591 · +60% births
1960
#6424
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Spencer
2021Rank #315
1,049
#3052
↗Rising
1950 - 202316 years
The story of Spencer
Spencer entered American naming records in 1922 and has been in use for over 102 years. More than 123,684 babies have been named Spencer since 1922. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5323 in 1950 to #362 in 2023. Spencer is used for both genders: 4% female and 96% male.
Spencer means "steward, dispenser of provisions" — 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 Spencer?
Spencer is currently ranked #362 in the United States 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 Spencer?
Spencer 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 Spencer?
Spencer is a two-syllable name pronounced S P EH1 N S ER0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Spencer more of a girl or boy name?
Spencer is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Spencer
For a sister
Spencer & Avery♡
Spencer & Madison♡
Spencer & Ivy♡
Spencer & Willow♡
For a brother
Spencer & Oliver♡
Spencer & Elijah♡
Spencer & Hudson♡
Spencer & Ethan♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#362
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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