Quentin
KWEN-tihn
Quentin derives from the Latin Quintinus, a derivative of quintus meaning “fifth.” Romans gave this name to the fifth-born child in a family.
Saint Quentin was a 3rd-century Roman missionary martyred in Gaul. The French city of Saint-Quentin preserves his memory, and the name spread through Frankish Christian communities.
Quentin peaked at No. 220 in 1919 with 567 births. In 2024 it ranks No. 788 with 318 births, well below its post-World War 1 high.
What the name Quentin means
Director Quentin Tarantino is the name’s most famous modern bearer. President Theodore Roosevelt’s son Quentin, killed in World War 1, added a poignant historical layer.
Two syllables—KWEN-tin—sound crisp and intellectual. The initial velar-labiovelar cluster and nasal ending give it a distinctive, slightly aristocratic air.
Parents who choose Quentin value its scholarly sound and Q-initial rarity. Few names begin with Q, making it immediately stand out in any group.
The Tarantino association adds creative, cinematic cool to a name with saintly and presidential credentials. Quentin bridges high culture and pop culture.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Quentin
Quentin - similar names
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