Lance
Lance is a boys' name of English origin meaning “land.” It ranked #862 in the United States in 2025.
Torn between Lance and another name? Ask family and friends to vote
how do you pronounce Lance?
LANS
where does the name Lance come from?
From a medieval given name Lanzo, a short form of names beginning with the Germanic element land.
Lance derives from the Old German 'land' (territory) and also evokes the medieval weapon, connecting it to knights and chivalry. The Arthurian Sir Lancelot cemented its romantic, heroic image. The name was popular in the mid-20th century and projects a strong, straightforward masculinity with a touch of chivalric romance.
how popular is this name?
Lance has appeared in the US top 1,000 in 94 years since 1900, and fell outside it for 32. It peaked at #76 in 1970, and ranked #862 in 2025.
See the milestone years
| Year | Rank |
|---|---|
| 2025 | #862 |
| 2024 | #840 |
| 2023 | #813 |
| 2022 | #788 |
| 2021 | #803 |
| 2020 | #764 |
| 2019 | #664 |
| 2018 | #651 |
| 2017 | #634 |
| 2016 | #616 |
| 2010 | #443 |
| 2000 | #267 |
| 1990 | #182 |
| 1980 | #152 |
| 1970 | #76 |
| 1960 | #171 |
| 1950 | #249 |
| 1940 | #358 |
| 1900 | #968 |
Source: SSA National Baby Names Dataset (through 2025). Years absent from the table are years Lance fell outside the top 1,000.
who are famous people named Lance?
- Lance Armstrong (American cyclist, controversially stripped of Tour de France titles)
- Sir Lancelot (legendary Knight of the Round Table)
what names are similar to Lance?
what names go well with Lance?
Sibling names that share Lance's rhythm and register without echoing it too closely.
quick answers about Lance
What does the name Lance mean?
Lance means “land”.
What is the origin of the name Lance?
Lance comes from the English naming tradition.
How popular is the name Lance?
Lance ranked #862 in the US in 2025, according to Social Security data. Its best year was 1970, at #76, and it has spent 94 years in the top 1,000 since 1900.
Is Lance a boy or girl name?
Lance is primarily a boys' name.
How do you pronounce Lance?
Lance is pronounced LANS, with 1 syllable.
Last updated · Curated by HushName editorial
love Lance? get 10 more names curated for your family.
Popularity rankings and meanings are just the starting point. Our AI consultant finds names that match your heritage, style, and what matters most to you.
Completely free. No credit card required.
Start your free session