A 1930s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Curtiss since 1896
Babies named Curtiss per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1959, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Curtiss's real moment was 1935.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 6 |
| 1900s | 16 |
| 1910s | 236 |
| 1920s | 475 |
| 1930s | 586 |
| 1940s | 781 |
| 1950s | 947 |
| 1960s | 792 |
| 1970s | 463 |
| 1980s | 379 |
| 1990s | 232 |
| 2000s | 94 |
| 2010s | 57 |
| 2020s | 10 |
Meaning & origin
Curtiss is a masculine name that peaked in the 1930s, specifically in 1935 when it was most commonly given. After a long decline, the name has shown a mild resurgence since 2022, though it remains outside the top 1000. As a variant spelling of Curtis, it carries the meaning 'courteous' and has English and French origins. The name was first recorded in U.S. data in 1896, and while it has never been extremely common, it has maintained steady use over generations. Its revival potential appeals to parents seeking a vintage name with a slightly more distinctive spelling.
Curtiss is a variant of Curtis, derived from the Old French 'curteis' meaning 'courteous' or 'refined'. Originally used as a nickname for someone of good breeding or polite manners, it evolved into a surname and later a given name. The spelling with double 's' is a common adaptation in English, particularly in America.
Where Curtiss 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: Curt, Curty
Sibling names for Curtiss
Names that share Curtiss's style, for a brother or sister.
