Vincent
Vincent Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
/ˈvɪn.sənt/
Meaning of Vincent: Vincent derives from the Latin vincens, present participle of vincere (to conquer, to overcome), meaning "conquering" or "victorious." The root is one of the most productive in Latin -- it also gives us the words "invincible," "conviction," and "victor."
Saint Vincent of Saragossa (died 304 CE) was a deacon martyred under Diocletian whose veneration spread widely across the medieval Catholic world. His feast day, January 22nd, made him particularly important in cold-climate countries where January saints were prominent in the agricultural calendar.
Saint Vincent de Paul (1581-1660), the French priest who founded the Congregation of the Mission and the Ladies of Charity, became one of the most beloved social reformers in Catholic history.
What Does Vincent Mean? Origin & Etymology
He is the patron saint of charitable organizations and of all works of charity, and the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul carries his name worldwide today.
The name's most culturally powerful modern bearer is the Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890), whose tortured genius and posthumous fame made Vincent synonymous with artistic passion, mental struggle, and transcendent creativity. His name is recognized globally as a symbol of the suffering artist.
Vincent ranked 121st for boys in the US in 2024. After a long period of mid-range stability, it has shown gentle upward movement as parents return to classic, dignified names with deep cultural resonance -- and as Van Gogh's cultural status continues to grow.
Further reading: etymology records and US popularity records from SSA.
How Popular Is Vincent?
Numerology & Symbolism of Vincent
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Vincent – Similar Names & Alternatives
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Frequently Asked Questions about Vincent
What does the name Vincent mean?
Vincent means "conquering" or "victorious," from Latin vincens, the present participle of vincere (to conquer). The root also gives us invincible and victor. As a name it expresses overcoming obstacles -- a meaning that resonates with Vincent van Gogh's posthumous triumph over neglect.
Who are the saints named Vincent?
The two most significant are Saint Vincent of Saragossa (died 304 CE), a deacon martyred under Diocletian and one of the most venerated early Spanish martyrs, and Saint Vincent de Paul (1581-1660), the French priest who founded multiple charitable organizations. Saint Vincent de Paul is the patron saint of all works of charity and the namesake of the worldwide Society of Saint Vincent de Paul.
How popular is Vincent in the United States?
Vincent ranked 121st for boys in the US in 2024. It has been inside the top 200 continuously since the 1950s, a remarkably stable performer. It peaked near rank 80 in the 1950s-1960s and has held a consistent mid-range position since, with a slight recent upward trend.
Is Vincent associated with Van Gogh?
Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890) is the most culturally powerful modern bearer of the name. The Dutch post-Impressionist painter sold only one painting during his lifetime but created over 2,100 works, including some of the most recognized paintings in history. Don McLean's 1971 song "Vincent" (Starry Starry Night) gave the name an emotional musical tribute that reinforced its artistic associations.