MallowbyNames

Tarrence

TAIR-ens · Of uncertain origin; likely a variant of Terence, which may mean 'tender, graceful' or derive from the Roman family name Terentius.

Peak popularity
1978
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Tarrence since 1962

Babies named Tarrence per year in U.S. Social Security records.

91827198020002020Most births 1978Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1960s75
1970s212
1980s193
1990s158
2000s100
2010s55
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Tarrence is a modern American respelling of the classic Terence, first recorded in the United States in 1962. Though it has never broken into the top 1000, its peak year came in 1978, when the variant saw its highest usage. The name's trajectory has been stable over recent decades, maintaining a low but consistent presence. Tarrence remains a rare choice, with an 1-in-N ratio that is too low to calculate precisely. As a spelling variation, it shares the uncertain etymology of Terence, which may derive from the Latin 'Terentius' or an Etruscan root. Parents drawn to the name often appreciate its distinct spelling while honoring the classic roots of Terence. Tarrence is not tied to any particular region or top states, reflecting its rarity across the country.

Tarrence is a spelling variant of Terence, a name of Latin origin from the Roman family name Terentius. Its meaning is debated, possibly from Latin 'terens' meaning 'rubbing, wearing away', or connected to an Etruscan root. The name gained popularity in the English-speaking world through the influence of the Roman playwright Terence. Tarrence emerged as a modern American respelling, first recorded in 1962, reflecting a trend of varied spellings.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Terry, Rence

Variants: Terence, Terrence, Terrance, Tarence

Sibling names for Tarrence

Names that share Tarrence's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

T is for Tarrence, our favorite little boy.

T is for Tarrence…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Tarrence's letter becomes Tarrence's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Tarrence's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Tarrence mean?
The meaning of Tarrence is uncertain. It is most likely a variant of Terence, which may mean 'tender' or 'graceful,' but the exact origin is debated.
How popular is the name Tarrence?
Tarrence is a rare name. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1962 but has never ranked in the top 1000. Its peak usage was in 1978.
Is Tarrence a boy's name?
Yes, Tarrence is almost exclusively used as a boy's name.