The name Torrance is derived from the Old French word "tor," meaning a rocky hill or a craggy peak. It is believed to have originated in the medieval period, likely in the areas of present-day France and England.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name can be found in the Domesday Book, a medieval census commissioned in 1086 by William the Conqueror. The book mentions a settlement called "Torintun" in Somerset, England, which is thought to be a precursor to the modern name.

Torrance may have also been influenced by the Latin word "torrens," meaning a rushing stream or a torrent of water. This could suggest a connection to geographic features such as rivers or streams in the areas where the name first gained popularity.

In the 12th century, a Scottish nobleman named Torrance is mentioned in the records of the Knights Templar, a prominent military order during the Crusades. This suggests that the name was in use among the aristocracy and may have been associated with chivalry and military prowess.

Another notable bearer of the name was Sir Torrance de Lancy, a French knight who fought alongside Joan of Arc during the Hundred Years' War in the 15th century. He was known for his bravery and loyalty to the French cause.

In the 16th century, the name appears in the writings of the English poet and playwright William Shakespeare. In his play "The Merry Wives of Windsor," he mentions a character named Torrance, adding literary significance to the name.

During the 17th century, a Scottish military leader named Torrance Graham played a crucial role in the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, fighting for the Royalist cause. He was renowned for his strategic prowess and leadership on the battlefield.

In the 19th century, an American businessman named Torrance Baxter established a successful trading company in New York City, contributing to the name's presence in the United States.