Nance

English variation of Hebrew Hannah

"grace"

Nance Origin and Meaning

The name Nance is a girl's name.

Nance is a feminine name with roots as both a medieval diminutive of Ann/Anne and as an English surname. The name Anne derives from Hebrew Hannah, meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' As a given name, Nance was more common in medieval and early modern periods, particularly in Cornwall, England, where it also developed as a surname. The name experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century in America but has since become quite rare as a first name. Nance carries a vintage, simple charm while maintaining connections to the more traditional Ann/Anne family of names. It's sometimes seen as a nickname for Nancy, which itself originated as a diminutive of Ann. Today, Nance might appeal to parents seeking a short, distinctive name with historical roots and a connection to English heritage.

Famous People Named Nance

• Nance O'Neil stage name of Gertrude Lamson, American actress
• Nance Dicciani American chemical engineer
• Nance Legins Costley, American slave who was the first legally freed by attorney Abraham Lincoln in 1841

The name Nance in Pop Culture

• Nance Winters character in Marvel Comics