Spencer: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced SPEN-ser · 2 syllables
Spencer means “spence”, from English.
An occupational surname from Middle English Spenser, Spencer, Spensier, from the common noun spenser (“spencer”), denoting someone who works in a spense (“spence”), or as a butler or steward.
- Meaning
- spence
- Origin
- English
- Pronunciation
- SPEN-ser
- US rank (2025)
- #360
- US babies a year
- about 1,184 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 1990
- Style
- Classic
How popular is Spencer?
Spencer was the #360 name in the US in 2025, given to 1,153 babies. It’s used less than it was: down 30% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 1990.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #360 |
| England & Wales | #170 |
| Scotland | #213 |
| Northern Ireland | #270 |
| Ireland | #417 |
| Canada | #355 |
| Australia | #69 |
How old are people named Spencer?
Half of US adults named Spencer are older than 32; most are between 20 and 64. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Sibling names for Spencer
Names that real brothers and sisters of people named Spencer have, from family records on Wikidata, most common first.
Names like Spencer
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
Questions about Spencer
What does the name Spencer mean?
Spencer means “spence”. It comes from English.
How do you pronounce Spencer?
Spencer is pronounced SPEN-ser.
How popular is the name Spencer?
Spencer was the #360 name in the US in 2025, given to 1,153 babies. It’s used less than it was: down 30% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 1990.
How old are people named Spencer?
Half of US adults named Spencer are older than 32. Most are between 20 and 64.