Frances
Frances first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1918, when 16,132 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 960.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Frances popular?
Rising Frances has climbed over the past decade, given to more girls now than ten years ago.
| 2020s | 4,849 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 5,467 | |
| 2000s | 3,959 | |
| 1990s | 6,068 | |
| 1980s | 8,490 | |
| 1970s | 11,337 | |
| 1960s | 25,001 | |
| 1950s | 51,200 | |
| 1940s | 85,448 | |
| 1930s | 92,117 | |
| 1920s | 140,391 | |
| 1910s | 105,599 | |
| 1900s | 28,499 | |
| 1890s | 18,090 | |
| 1880s | 9,182 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Frances mean?
Frances is the feminine form of Francis, from the Latin for “Frenchman” or “free one.” Spelled with an “e,” it is the traditional female version (Francis, with an “i,” the male). St Frances of Rome is a noted bearer.
Nicknames for Frances
- Fran
- Frankie
- Fanny
- Francie
Variants & spellings
- Francesca
- Françoise
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
Is Frances a boy or a girl name?
Frances is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Frances a popular name right now?
Frances has climbed over the past decade, given to more girls now than ten years ago.
How popular is the name Frances?
In 2025, Frances ranked #318 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Frances most popular?
Frances was most popular in 1918, when about 16,132 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Frances?
Common nicknames for Frances include Fran, Frankie, Fanny, Francie.