Declining since 1990, #1,654 for boys today.
Popularity of Cortez since 1882
Babies named Cortez per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 0 |
| 1900s | 5 |
| 1910s | 100 |
| 1920s | 118 |
| 1930s | 129 |
| 1940s | 117 |
| 1950s | 228 |
| 1960s | 378 |
| 1970s | 814 |
| 1980s | 1,814 |
| 1990s | 2,669 |
| 2000s | 2,033 |
| 2010s | 1,854 |
| 2020s | 635 |
Meaning & origin
Cortez is a Spanish surname turned given name, most familiar from the conquistador Hernán Cortés. Its use as a first name is largely an American innovation, peaking in popularity in 1990 when it ranked 754th. Since then, its frequency has declined steadily; by 2025 it had fallen to 1654th, with only about 1 in 16,912 boys receiving the name. The name has been recorded in U.S. birth data since at least 1882, though it remained uncommon for most of its history. Geographically, Cortez has been most popular in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Michigan, suggesting a regional appeal in the South and parts of the Midwest. While its meaning as 'courteous' is positive, the name carries historical weight that some may find inspiring and others controversial. Overall, Cortez remains a distinctive choice, far from the mainstream.
Cortez is a Spanish surname that originated as a patronymic from the word 'cortés,' meaning 'courteous' or 'polite.' Its use as a given name is primarily an American practice, often honoring the conquistador Hernán Cortés. The name gained modest popularity in the United States in the late 20th century, but its use remains relatively uncommon.
Where Cortez is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Cort, Cory
Variants: Cortes
Sibling names for Cortez
Names that share Cortez's style, for a brother or sister.
