Priscilla Girl
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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 86 | |
TX | 48 | |
FL | 24 | |
GA | 23 | |
IL | 21 | |
NY | 17 | |
NC | 16 | |
AZ | 16 | |
OH | 16 | |
MN | 14 | |
PA | 13 | |
VA | 13 | |
IN | 13 | |
MO | 12 | |
TN | 12 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 26 |
1881 | 27 |
1882 | 35 |
1883 | 27 |
1884 | 40 |
1885 | 32 |
1886 | 42 |
1887 | 51 |
1888 | 56 |
1889 | 39 |
1890 | 40 |
1891 | 51 |
1892 | 50 |
1893 | 51 |
1894 | 59 |
1895 | 63 |
1896 | 72 |
1897 | 73 |
1898 | 71 |
1899 | 59 |
1900 | 110 |
1901 | 72 |
1902 | 79 |
1903 | 79 |
1904 | 80 |
1905 | 88 |
1906 | 107 |
1907 | 117 |
1908 | 106 |
1909 | 99 |
1910 | 142 |
1911 | 148 |
1912 | 205 |
1913 | 241 |
1914 | 279 |
1915 | 392 |
1916 | 440 |
1917 | 456 |
1918 | 518 |
1919 | 557 |
1920 | 637 |
1921 | 723 |
1922 | 761 |
1923 | 811 |
1924 | 861 |
1925 | 830 |
1926 | 834 |
1927 | 898 |
1928 | 887 |
1929 | 842 |
1930 | 824 |
1931 | 749 |
1932 | 728 |
1933 | 676 |
1934 | 664 |
1935 | 774 |
1936 | 758 |
1937 | 797 |
1938 | 1,026 |
1939 | 1,542 |
1940 | 1,970 |
1941 | 1,971 |
1942 | 1,988 |
1943 | 1,834 |
1944 | 1,576 |
1945 | 1,412 |
1946 | 1,659 |
1947 | 1,933 |
1948 | 1,847 |
1949 | 1,935 |
1950 | 1,672 |
1951 | 1,590 |
1952 | 1,547 |
1953 | 1,379 |
1954 | 1,307 |
1955 | 1,280 |
1956 | 1,350 |
1957 | 1,449 |
1958 | 1,396 |
1959 | 1,271 |
1960 | 1,215 |
1961 | 1,089 |
1962 | 1,211 |
1963 | 1,248 |
1964 | 1,138 |
1965 | 945 |
1966 | 846 |
1967 | 871 |
1968 | 857 |
1969 | 919 |
1970 | 934 |
1971 | 904 |
1972 | 766 |
1973 | 826 |
1974 | 905 |
1975 | 722 |
1976 | 789 |
1977 | 913 |
1978 | 1,099 |
1979 | 1,256 |
1980 | 1,432 |
1981 | 1,539 |
1982 | 1,488 |
1983 | 1,508 |
1984 | 1,601 |
1985 | 1,701 |
1986 | 1,536 |
1987 | 1,648 |
1988 | 1,812 |
1989 | 1,740 |
1990 | 1,754 |
1991 | 1,779 |
1992 | 1,726 |
1993 | 1,596 |
1994 | 1,507 |
1995 | 1,307 |
1996 | 1,093 |
1997 | 1,156 |
1998 | 1,284 |
1999 | 1,291 |
2000 | 1,170 |
2001 | 1,130 |
2002 | 1,090 |
2003 | 1,080 |
2004 | 921 |
2005 | 909 |
2006 | 874 |
2007 | 876 |
2008 | 777 |
2009 | 772 |
2010 | 621 |
2011 | 612 |
2012 | 631 |
2013 | 637 |
2014 | 652 |
2015 | 635 |
2016 | 669 |
2017 | 592 |
2018 | 535 |
2019 | 487 |
2020 | 523 |
2021 | 477 |
2022 | 411 |
2023 | 451 |
2024 | 484 |