Ace Overview
- Meaning: The most common meaning for Ace is “unit” or “unity.” It’s often associated with intelligence or being the best.
- Gender: Ace is a popular boy’s name in the United States. It doesn’t have a feminine alternative.
- Origin: Ace originated from the Latin word for “unit” or “unity.”
- Pronunciation: “AYS”
- Popularity: Ace currently ranks in 156th place in the United States. It’s the highest rank Ace has held since census records began.
- Variations: Acer, Acey, Acie, Asse, Azzo, Atso, Atx.
- Namesakes: Ace Adams, Ace Atkins, Ace Backwords, Ace Austin.
What Does Ace Mean?
Ace is a boy’s given name and popular nickname that means “one” or “unit” in Latin. This meaning is where the ace playing card gets its name and value. As a name, Ace isn’t very common. That said, as a given name and a nickname, Ace carries favorable meaning.
What Is the Origin of the Name Ace?
Ace traces its origins from Old French to Latin. It evolved from the Latin “as,” which meant “unity” or “unit.” The word “ace” first appeared in Middle English as a label for the one on a die and signified the lowest number of something. At the time, the ace in a deck of cards or on a die meant bad luck.
However, as the ace’s value in cards evolved, so did its meaning. Now, Ace implies the best of something or excellence. As a name, Ace evokes images of high achievements and intelligence. (1)
How Popular is the Name Ace?
Ace started the 20th century moderately popular, coming in 968th in 1900. However, despite a brief stint at 697th place in 1903, Ace was largely uncommon for the bulk of the last century. Ace made a resurgence in 2006, landing at 841st place.
Ace’s rise in popularity continued after its 2006 return. Today, Ace has become a popular boy’s name. In 2021, it ranked 156th in the US. Despite a slight blackslide in 2015, it appears Ace will continue to gain popularity among parents. (2)
How Do I Pronounce Ace?
Ace is pronounced “AYS.”
Is Ace a Boy or Girl Name?
Ace is traditionally a boy’s name. However, it’s also a popular nickname for boys and girls.
Variations of Ace
Ace has Latin roots, but it’s spread around the world over the centuries. So now, you can find a few variations of Ace in cultures all over.
- Acer (Old English)
- Acey (English)
- Acie (English)
- Asse (Norman, Old French)
- Azzo (Germanic)
- Atso (Germanic)
- Atx (Germanic)
Similar Names to Ace
Due to its unique nature, Ace might not be for everyone. However, if you want a name similar to Ace, there are plenty to choose from. Here are a few options with the same sound and feel.
Middle Names for Ace
Ace requires a solid middle name to match its unique nature. Middle name options are endless, of course. But here are a few that will help let Ace shine.
Sibling Names for Ace
When you have multiple children, you’ll want their names to complement one another. If you’re looking for a sibling name for Ace, here are a few options.
Sister Names for Ace
- Anna
- Carol
- Christine (Chrissy, Chris, Christy)
- Emmeline (Emmie, Emma, Em)
- Eveline (Evvie, Evy)
- Jennifer (Jen, Jenny)
- Korinne
- Kylie
- Lauren
- Madison (Maddie)
- Nadine
Brother Names for Ace
- Aaron
- Blake
- Dorian
- Edward (Ed, Eddie)
- Jackson
- Patrick (Pat)
- Robert (Bob, Bobby, Rob)
- Ryan
- Samuel (Sam, Sammy)
- Stephen (Steve, Stevie)
- William (Will, Bill, Willy, Billy)
Famous People Named Ace
Ace was common in the English lexicon for centuries, but it’s only recently become popular as a name. Here are a few famous people that have this unique name.
- Ace Adams: American baseball player.
- Ace Atkins: American reporter and author.
- Ace Austin: American professional wrestler.
- Ace Backwords: Underground cartoonist.
- Ace Cannon: American saxophone player.
- Ace Frehley: American musician.
- Ace Harper: American musician.
- Ace Hood: American rapper.
- Ace Magashule: South African politician.
- Ace Mahbaz: Iranian actor and writer.
- Ace Wilder: Swedish singer.
- Ace Young: American musician.
Ace in Popular Culture
Ace doesn’t show up very often in popular culture. In many cases, you have a name that looks or sounds similar. Here’s a brief list of a few fictional characters named Ace.
- Ace: A character from the G.I. Joe universe.
- Ace Blackwell: A character from Half and Half.
- Ace Copular: A character from Powerpuff Girls.
- Ace Rimmer: A character in Red Dwarf.
- Ace Rothstein: A character in Casino.
- Ace Ventura: Titular character from the Ace Ventura movies.
- Ace the Wonder Dog: A cartoon character from the mid-20th century.
- Acid Ace: A character in Mega Man Star Force 3.
- John “Ace” Merrill: A character from Stephen King’s It.
- Ultraman Ace: Titular character from a Japanese television drama.
Ace FAQs
Do you still have questions about Ace? Here are the answers to some common questions about this unique name.
Does Ace Appear in the Bible?
Although Ace has ancient origins, the name doesn’t appear in the Bible at all. Based on records, Ace didn’t appear as a given name until the late 19th century. Prior to then, Ace was only used as a word.
Does Ace Mean “Intelligent”?
Although Ace is often used when a person passes a test, the name doesn’t mean “intelligent.” Over the centuries, “Ace” has evolved to mean “the best” or “high achieving” in some places. However, its origin means “unit” or “one.” (3)
Is Ace a Unique Name?
Ace’s low popularity shows what a unique name it is. It’s different enough to stand out, but it still carries a classic tone. Ace’s unique nature likely led to its increased popularity recently.
