Frances

Frances is a feminine given name in English-speaking countries. It is the English form of Francis, which derives from the Latin Franciscus, meaning “Frenchman” or “a Frank.” The feminine variant Frances developed in medieval and early modern English, with related forms such as Francesca in Italian and Fran or Frankie as diminutives. The name has been borne by many figures in literature, religion, and public life.

In the United States and other Anglophone regions, Frances enjoyed particular popularity in the 19th and early 20th centuries, though it remains in use today at lower levels. It can also be found as a surname in rare cases.

Notable people named Frances include:

- Frances Burney (1752–1840), English novelist and diarist

- Frances Hodgson Burnett (1849–1924), English-American author

- Frances Cleveland (Frances Folsom Cleveland, 1864–1947), First Lady of the United States

- Frances Perkins (1880–1965), American labor secretary and first female U.S. cabinet member

- Frances Oldham Kelsey (1914–2015), Canadian-born American physician who helped prevent dangerous drug use

- Frances McDormand (born 1957), American actress

- Frances Arnold (born 1956), American chemist and Nobel laureate

Frances remains a recognizable and traditional given name in contemporary contexts, often associated with historical figures and literary namesakes.