Find out how popular the first name Rance has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Rance by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Rance is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 11 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Rance.

The history of the first name Rance

The given name Rance has its origins in the French language, with roots dating back to the medieval period. It is derived from the Old French word "ranc," which means "rancid" or "stale." This unusual etymology suggests that the name may have been initially used as a descriptive nickname or surname before becoming a given name in its own right.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Rance can be found in the 13th century, when a Norman knight named Rance de Villers was mentioned in historical records from the time of the Crusades. The name also appears in various medieval French texts and chronicles, though its usage remained relatively uncommon during this period.

In the 16th century, a notable figure named Rance Bourgoing (1536-1599) gained prominence as a French diplomat and writer. He served as the ambassador to various European courts and authored several works on diplomacy and international relations.

Another historically significant individual with the name Rance was Rance de Givry (1610-1684), a French nobleman and military commander who played a crucial role in the Wars of Religion in France during the 17th century.

In the realm of literature, the name Rance is associated with the character of Monsieur de Rance, a prominent figure in the French novel "La Chartreuse de Parme" by Stendhal, published in 1839.

Moving into the 20th century, Rance Howard (1928-2017) was an American actor and writer who appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career. He was also the father of acclaimed actor and director Ron Howard.

While the name Rance has remained relatively uncommon throughout history, it has been borne by a diverse range of individuals, from medieval knights and diplomats to modern-day actors and writers. Despite its unusual etymology, the name has endured as a unique and distinctive moniker, carrying with it a rich tapestry of cultural and historical significance.

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 Rance was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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