Frances

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Frances

Gender Girl
Origin Latin
Letters 7
Syllables 1
Pronunciation fran-sis

Frances, which has 7 letters and 1 syllable, is a female name of Latin origin.

Meaning of Frances

Free

The meaning of the name Frances is "free". It is derived from the Latin word "franciscus" which means "free man".

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Meaning Free
Origin Latin
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #379 in 2024 Rising
Rarity (US) Uncommon (Top 500)
Era Vintage (1910s)

Background & History of The Name Frances

The name Frances is of Latin origin and is derived from the male name Franciscus, which means "French" or "free". It is the feminine and English form of the name Francis. The name Frances has been used for centuries and has a strong historical significance. It gained popularity in the 13th century due to the influence of Saint Francis of Assisi. Frances became a popular name choice among Christians in honor of this revered saint.

In terms of popularity, Frances reached its peak during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was a highly favored name, especially in English-speaking countries. Notable individuals who bore the name Frances include the American writer and journalist Frances Hodgson Burnett, famous for her novel "The Secret Garden", and Frances Perkins, the first female member of the United States Cabinet. Furthermore, singer and actress Frances Ethel Gumm, better known as Judy Garland, also contributed to elevating the name's familiarity and appeal.

Frances is a timeless and elegant name that has managed to maintain its charm throughout the years. It exudes sophistication and carries a sense of classic femininity. The name's simplicity and versatility make it a popular choice for parents seeking a traditional yet distinguished name for their daughters. Frances can be associated with qualities such as intelligence, grace, and strength. Due to its historical significance and strong cultural presence, Frances continues to stand the test of time as a beloved and popular name.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Frances over the years.

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Common nicknames and short forms for Frances.

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