Spencer
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What does the baby name Spencer mean? Learn about what Spencer means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.
Spencer - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Spelling of Spencer
- S-P-E-N-C-E-R, is a 7-letter male given name.
- Pronunciation of Spencer
- SPEN-sər
- SPEN ser
- Meaning of Spencer
- Dispenser of provisions, butler, steward, man who manages the distribution of food.
- Origin of Spencer
- The name 'Spencer' has its origins in Old French and Old English. It is derived from the occupational surname 'despenser', which referred to someone who dispensed provisions or acted as a steward. The word 'despenser' ultimately comes from the Latin word 'dispensator', meaning 'one who dispenses'.
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- Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Spencer
- Spence
- Spenser
- Popularity of Spencer
- The name 'Spencer' has been in use as a given name since the 19th century. It gained popularity in the United States during the 20th century and has remained relatively stable in terms of usage. While not among the most popular names, 'Spencer' has consistently ranked within the top 500 names for boys in the United States.
- Spencer currently has 1257 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked boy's names. The name Aiden is slightly more popular than Spencer.
Etymology of Spencer
The etymology of the name 'Spencer' can be traced back to the Latin word 'dispensator', as mentioned earlier. The word 'dispensator' referred to someone who was responsible for distributing provisions, often in a noble or royal household. Over time, the surname 'despenser' evolved into the given name 'Spencer'.
Cultural Significance of Spencer
The name 'Spencer' does not hold significant cultural or historical associations. However, it is worth noting that the surname 'despenser' was associated with a noble family in medieval England. Hugh le Despenser the Elder and his son Hugh le Despenser the Younger were prominent figures during the reign of King Edward II. They held positions of power and influence, which may have contributed to the name's popularity as a given name.