Nancy

Meaning & Origin

Meaning: Grace; Favor

Background: The name Nancy originates as a diminutive of Anne, which comes from the Hebrew name Hannah, meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' The use of Nancy became popular in English-speaking regions in the 18th century, further solidifying its presence as an independent given name.

At a glance

Quick stats based on the history of this name.

Lifetime rank
#13
Total births
1,007,116
Most popular decade
1940s (757,929 births)
10-year trend
↓ Falling (-164 ranks)
Years in Top 100
80
First recorded year
1880

Gender usage

0.3% male 99.7% female

Stats by gender

Male

First year
1889
First year births
7
First year rank
#789
Peak year
1938
Peak year births
91
Peak rank
#622
Most recent year
2004
Recent year births
5
Recent rank
#11,354

Female

First year
1880
First year births
410
First year rank
#62
Peak year
1947
Peak year births
32,445
Peak rank
#7
Most recent year
2024
Recent year births
288
Recent rank
#919

Births over time

Number of babies given this name each year.

Rank over time

Popularity rank by year (1 = most popular).

Related links