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Priscilla Girl

Popularity: #511 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationpri-SIL-uh / /prɪˈsɪlə/

Latin; Hebrew

Meaning

Latin: 'ancient'; Hebrew: 'to be fruitful'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Priscilla has its roots in Latin, derived from the word "priscus," meaning "ancient" or "venerable." The name appears in various forms throughout history, including the Latin "Priscilla" and the Greek "Πρυσκίλλα" (Priskilla). It entered the English language through the Latin form, primarily due to the influence of early Christian texts and the spread of Christianity in the Roman Empire. The name is notably associated with a prominent figure in the New Testament, Priscilla, who, along with her husband Aquila, is mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles and the letters of Paul, particularly in the first century CE. This biblical association contributed significantly to the name's adoption among early Christians.

Throughout the centuries, Priscilla has been recognized as a symbol of piety and dedication, often celebrated for her role in the early Christian community. The name appears in various historical texts and has been borne by several saints, further solidifying its place in Christian tradition. The Vulgate, a late 4th-century Latin translation of the Bible, also references Priscilla, ensuring her legacy continued through ecclesiastical writings and teachings.

Culturally, the name Priscilla has been embraced in various artistic and literary works, reflecting its enduring significance. In the Renaissance, the name was sometimes associated with wisdom and virtue, as it was linked to the biblical Priscilla's role as a teacher of Apollos, a notable early Christian preacher. The diminutive form "Cilla" has also emerged, though it is less commonly used in historical texts. Overall, Priscilla's etymological roots, historical milestones, and cultural resonance contribute to its lasting presence in Christian and literary traditions.

Trend Summary

Priscilla has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a notable decline in usage since the mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Prissy
  • Cilla

International Variants

  • Priscille (French)
  • Priscila (Spanish)
  • Priscila (Portuguese)

Famous people named Priscilla

Priscilla Presley is an actress and businesswoman best known for her marriage to Elvis Presley, her role in the Naked Gun series, and her work with Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Priscilla Chan is a philanthropist and pediatrician best known for co-founding the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, her work in education reform, and her advocacy for children's health.

Fictional characters named Priscilla

Priscilla is a fictional character from the anime and manga series Fullmetal Alchemist. She is a skilled alchemist and a member of the military, playing a significant role in the story's exploration of morality and sacrifice.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Priscilla was first seen in the United States in 1880. Priscilla has ranked as high as #247 nationally, which occurred in 1942, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Massachusetts, and Florida. In the past 5 years the name Priscilla has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Priscilla (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 86
20%
TX 48
11%
FL 24
6%
GA 23
5%
IL 21
5%
NY 17
4%
NC 16
4%
AZ 16
4%
OH 16
4%
MN 14
3%
PA 13
3%
VA 13
3%
IN 13
3%
MO 12
3%
TN 12
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188026
188127
188235
188327
188440
188532
188642
188751
188856
188939
189040
189151
189250
189351
189459
189563
189672
189773
189871
189959
1900110
190172
190279
190379
190480
190588
1906107
1907117
1908106
190999
1910142
1911148
1912205
1913241
1914279
1915392
1916440
1917456
1918518
1919557
1920637
1921723
1922761
1923811
1924861
1925830
1926834
1927898
1928887
1929842
1930824
1931749
1932728
1933676
1934664
1935774
1936758
1937797
19381,026
19391,542
19401,970
19411,971
19421,988
19431,834
19441,576
19451,412
19461,659
19471,933
19481,847
19491,935
19501,672
19511,590
19521,547
19531,379
19541,307
19551,280
19561,350
19571,449
19581,396
19591,271
19601,215
19611,089
19621,211
19631,248
19641,138
1965945
1966846
1967871
1968857
1969919
1970934
1971904
1972766
1973826
1974905
1975722
1976789
1977913
19781,099
19791,256
19801,432
19811,539
19821,488
19831,508
19841,601
19851,701
19861,536
19871,648
19881,812
19891,740
19901,754
19911,779
19921,726
19931,596
19941,507
19951,307
19961,093
19971,156
19981,284
19991,291
20001,170
20011,130
20021,090
20031,080
2004921
2005909
2006874
2007876
2008777
2009772
2010621
2011612
2012631
2013637
2014652
2015635
2016669
2017592
2018535
2019487
2020523
2021477
2022411
2023451
2024484