What does Talmage mean and where does it come from?
Talmage is derived from the Old French word 'Talmache', meaning 'from the valley.' It is considered a rare name today but carries a historical significance associated with certain American families and settlers. The name also has been notably used in ecclesiastical contexts among some religious grou
Cultural significance
Talmage has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the valley.
Peak popularity
Reached #555 in 1895 — currently #9631 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Talmage?
Talmage works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Talmage Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Talmage Rose
Floral · soft ending
Talmage Mae
Sweet · timeless
Talmage Claire
French influence · crisp
Talmage Jane
Literary · strong
Talmage Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Talmage right now?
Falling — down 1412 spots — currently #9631 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #9631 | 8 | ▼ down 1412 · -20% births |
| 2022 | #8219 | 10 | ▼ down 2686 · -41% births |
| 2021 | #5533 | 17 | ▲ up 3142 · +113% births |
| 2020 | #8675 | 8 | ▼ down 4376 · -65% births |
| 2015 | #4299 | 23 | ▼ down 405 · -12% births |
| 2010 | #3894 | 26 | ▼ down 440 · -7% births |
| 2005 | #3454 | 28 | ▲ up 474 · +40% births |
| 2000 | #3928 | 20 | ▲ up 369 · +43% births |
| 1995 | #4297 | 14 | ▲ up 3864 · +180% births |
| 1990 | #8161 | 5 | ▼ down 4333 · -55% births |
| 1985 | #3828 | 11 | ▲ up 1137 · +57% births |
| 1980 | #4965 | 7 | ▼ down 1653 · -22% births |
| 1970 | #3312 | 9 | ▼ down 290 · +13% births |
| 1965 | #3022 | 8 | ▲ up 347 · +14% births |
| 1960 | #3369 | 7 | — |
The story of Talmage
Talmage has been a beloved American name for over 143 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1881. With 2,233 total births recorded, Talmage remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #953 in 1890, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #9631 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Talmage in 1895:
Talmage by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 26 | |
| 1890s | 62 | |
| 1900s | 32 | |
| 1910s | 291 | |
| 1920s ★ | 419 | |
| 1930s | 292 | |
| 1940s | 192 | |
| 1950s | 128 | |
| 1960s | 86 | |
| 1970s | 60 | |
| 1980s | 77 | |
| 1990s | 90 | |
| 2000s | 242 | |
| 2010s | 228 | |
| 2020s | 8 | |
💎With 2,233 total births, Talmage is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Talmage?
What names sound and feel like Talmage?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Talmage also consider these
Common questions about the name Talmage
What does the name Talmage mean?
Talmage means "from the valley" — 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 Talmage?
Talmage 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 Talmage?
Talmage 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 Talmage?
Talmage is a two-syllable name pronounced T AE1 L M IH0 JH. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Talmage a common or rare name?
Talmage is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.