The given name Terence originated from the Roman family name Terentius, which was derived from the Latin word "terere" meaning "to rub". This name first came into use around the 3rd century BC in ancient Rome.

During the classical period, the name was borne by the renowned Roman playwright Publius Terentius Afer, also known as Terence, who lived from around 195-159 BC. His comedic plays, such as "The Eunuch" and "The Brothers", were highly influential in the development of Roman literature and theater.

The name Terence gained popularity throughout the Roman Empire and continued to be used during the Middle Ages. One notable figure was Saint Terence, a 3rd-century Christian martyr who was allegedly a Roman soldier executed for his faith under the reign of Emperor Decius.

In the 12th century, Terence was the name of a renowned philosopher and grammarian from the University of Paris, known as Terrentius the Grammarian or Terrentius of Arles. His works on Latin grammar and literature were widely studied in medieval Europe.

During the Renaissance, the name was borne by the Italian humanist and scholar Terence Basini (1483-1542), who was renowned for his expertise in classical literature and his translations of ancient Greek and Latin texts.

Another notable figure was the Irish playwright and satirist Terence O'Flaherty (1828-1908), better known by his pen name Bernard Shaw. His works, such as "Pygmalion" and "Man and Superman", were highly acclaimed and influential in the world of theater.

Terence V. Powderly (1849-1924) was an American labor leader and the head of the Knights of Labor, one of the most important labor organizations in the late 19th century, advocating for better working conditions and workers' rights.