Quincy

Meaning & origin

Quincy has seen a interesting trajectory in American naming trends since its first recorded use in 1880. It reached its peak rank of 652 in 1977, a time when the name was solidly in the top 1000 for boys. In 2025, the name still holds the same rank, reflecting stable usage over the decades despite changing fashions. Currently, about 1 in 4,048 newborns are named Quincy. Geographically, Quincy is most popular in Montana, Oregon, and Kansas, suggesting a preference in Western and Midwestern states. The name's aristocratic French origins and association with notable historical figures give it a dignified yet approachable feel. While primarily a male name, it has seen some use for girls in recent years, contributing to its modern unisex appeal.

Quincy originates from the de Quincy family in Normandy, France, derived from the place name Quincy in the former province of Berry. The surname came to England after the Norman Conquest and was borne by Saer de Quincy, a medieval Magna Carta surety. As a given name, it became associated with the fifth son in some aristocratic families due to the Latin word quintus for 'fifth', though this connection is debated.