Find out how popular the first name Hortense has been for the last 2 years (from 1975 to 1976) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Hortense by gender

Based on the last 2 years of data, Hortense is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1976, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Hortense.

The history of the first name Hortense

The name Hortense is derived from the Latin word "hortus", meaning "garden". It originated in the Romance languages, particularly in French and Italian. The name became popular in France during the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods.

The earliest recorded use of the name Hortense dates back to the 6th century AD, when it was mentioned in the writings of Pope Gregory I. During the Middle Ages, the name was associated with the Carolingian dynasty and the Frankish nobility. One notable historical figure was Hortense de Beauharnais, the daughter of Empress Josephine and stepdaughter of Napoleon Bonaparte. She was born in 1783 and married Louis Bonaparte, becoming the Queen of Holland.

In the 16th century, the name Hortense gained popularity among the French aristocracy. One famous bearer of the name was Hortense Mancini, Duchess of Mazarin, who was born in 1646 and was a prominent figure at the court of King Louis XIV of France. She was known for her beauty and intelligence, as well as her scandalous love affairs.

Another notable Hortense was Hortense de Polignac, born in 1776, who was a close friend and confidante of Queen Marie Antoinette of France. She was a member of the French nobility and fled France during the French Revolution.

In the 19th century, the name Hortense was popular among the upper classes in France and England. Hortense Eugénie Cécile Bonaparte, born in 1783, was the daughter of Empress Josephine and the stepdaughter of Napoleon Bonaparte. She was married to Louis Bonaparte and became the Queen of Holland.

Hortense Calisher, an American novelist and philosopher, was born in 1911 and is known for her works exploring the complexities of modern life. She received numerous literary awards, including the Janet Heidinger Kafka Prize and the Dos Passos Prize for Literature.

Throughout its history, the name Hortense has been associated with gardens, beauty, and nobility. While its popularity has waxed and waned over time, it remains a unique and elegant name with deep historical roots.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Hortense was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Hortense, please contact us.

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