What does Temperance mean and where does it come from?
Temperance is an English name that embodies the virtues of moderation and self-control. It has its roots in the Latin word 'temperantia', which relates to moderation. The name became notably popular in the United States during the temperance movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where
Cultural significance
Temperance has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of moderation; self-restraint.
Peak popularity
Reached #835 in 2012 — currently #1979 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Temperance?
Temperance works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Temperance Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Temperance Rose
Floral · soft ending
Temperance Mae
Sweet · timeless
Temperance Claire
French influence · crisp
Temperance Jane
Literary · strong
Temperance Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Temperance right now?
Falling — down 298 spots — currently #1979 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1979 | 100 | ▼ down 298 · -20% births |
| 2022 | #1681 | 125 | ▲ up 12 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #1693 | 123 | ▼ down 240 · -16% births |
| 2020 | #1453 | 147 | ▼ down 402 · -41% births |
| 2015 | #1051 | 250 | ▲ up 93 · +17% births |
| 2010 | #1144 | 213 | ▲ up 10795 · +2563% births |
| 2005 | #11939 | 8 | ▼ down 3772 · -20% births |
| 1995 | #8167 | 10 | ▼ down 1973 · -29% births |
| 1990 | #6194 | 14 | ▲ up 3300 · +133% births |
| 1985 | #9494 | 6 | ▼ down 1946 · -25% births |
| 1980 | #7548 | 8 | ▲ up 620 · +33% births |
| 1975 | #8168 | 6 | — |
The story of Temperance
Temperance entered American naming records in 1916 and has been in use for over 108 years. With 3,165 total births recorded, Temperance remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8168 in 1975 to #1979 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Temperance in 2012:
Temperance by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1970s | 64 | |
| 1980s | 73 | |
| 1990s | 89 | |
| 2000s | 378 | |
| 2010s ★ | 2,409 | |
| 2020s | 147 | |
💎With 3,165 total births, Temperance is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Temperance?
What names sound and feel like Temperance?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Temperance also consider these
Common questions about the name Temperance
What does the name Temperance mean?
Temperance means "Moderation; self-restraint" — 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 Temperance?
Temperance is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl 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 Temperance?
Temperance 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 Temperance?
Temperance is a two-syllable name pronounced T EH1 M P ER0 AH0 N S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Temperance a common or rare name?
Temperance is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.