Ortense
Latin
"of the garden"
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By Nameberry
Updated Tue Mar 18 2025
Ortense Origin and Meaning
The name Ortense is a girl's name.
Ortense is a feminine name derived from the Latin 'hortensis,' meaning 'of the garden.' It's a variant of Hortense, which gained prominence in France during the 17th century. The name has connections to the hydrangea flower, sometimes called hortensia in various languages. Ortense carries an antique, sophisticated charm with its subtle nature associations. Historically used among European nobility, including Hortense de Beauharnais, Queen of Holland and stepdaughter of Napoleon Bonaparte. While considered somewhat old-fashioned today, Ortense maintains appeal for parents drawn to vintage names with botanical connections. The spelling without the initial 'H' gives it a slightly more distinctive character than the traditional Hortense.