Race Name: Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
The name Race has its origins in Middle English, derived from a word meaning to run swiftly. It evolved from Old French and has maintained its connection to speed throughout its history. The name is associated with traits of athleticism and competition, and it has no biblical relevance. Its popularity surged in the late 20th century, and it remains a trendy choice today.
Etymology & Cultural Background of "Race"
Pronunciation
/reɪs/
Origin
Middle English
Etymology
The name 'Race' is derived from the Middle English word 'ras,' which means 'to run' or 'to race.' It is believed to have roots in Old French 'racier,' meaning 'to run swiftly.'
Meaning
Swift runner
Language Evolution
Old French: racier, Middle English: ras, Modern English: Race
Historical Usage
The name gained popularity in the late 20th century, particularly in the context of competitive sports and events.
Variants & Derivatives
Rae, Raci, Racel
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, the name Race is perceived as modern and athletic, often associated with speed and competition.
Famous People
Race Imboden - American fencer, Race Thompson - American basketball player
📊 Race Name Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Race Name Visualizations
✨ Race Name Meaning & Significance
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 65 peak births in 2002
Geographic Spread
Popular across 8 US states, with strongest presence in Idaho
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 5 different American generations with varying popularity
Historical Birth Statistics for the Name "Race"
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History of "Race"
"Race" Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Boy | 4541st of 7552 | 47 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 4923rd of 10718 | 69 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 3015th of 16616 | 306 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 2332nd of 24088 | 795 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 5807th of 23106 | 182 |
Regional Popularity of "Race" by Generation for Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
64.56% 2379th/3685 |
- | - |
53.79% 3398th/6317 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
54.60% 2502nd/4582 |
- |
46.37% 3391st/7313 |
29.68% 2215th/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity of "Race" by Generation for Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
State-by-State Popularity of "Race"
This map shows the relative popularity of "Race" across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends of "Race" in the United States
The name Race is most popular in Idaho, USA across all generations. It ranks highest as a Boy name among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Boy name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, Race has been stalled for male in MidWest, stalled for male in South, stalled for male in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for male in MidWest, stalled for male in South, stalled for male in West. Across generations, 'Race' has shown interesting popularity patterns: Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 4541st out of 7552 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 4923rd out of 10718 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 3015th out of 16616 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 2332nd out of 24088 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 5807th out of 23106 names. Discover how the name 'Race' has evolved through American history with our comprehensive regional and generational analysis.