Priscilla

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Priscilla

Gender Girl
Origin Latin
Letters 9
Syllables 3
Pronunciation pruh-SIL-uh

Priscilla, which has 9 letters and 3 syllables, is a female name of Latin origin.

Meaning of Priscilla

Old

Priscilla is a Latin name derived from the Roman family name Priscus, which means "ancient" or "old." It has been used as a female given name since the 16th century and is often associated with the Biblical character Priscilla (or Prisca), a woman who assisted the Apostle Paul.

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Meaning Old
Origin Latin
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #615 in 2024 Rising
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Vintage (1940s)

Background & History of The Name Priscilla

The name Priscilla is a feminine given name of Latin origin. Derived from the Latin word "priscus," meaning "ancient" or "venerable," Priscilla has a rich history and cultural significance. In ancient Roman times, this name was particularly common among noble families and was often associated with regal lineage. The name Priscilla has also been mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible, where a woman named Priscilla is depicted as a strong and faithful follower of Jesus.

Priscilla gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the 17th century and has remained relatively popular ever since. It has a timeless appeal and an elegant sound, making it a favorite choice for parents searching for a classic and sophisticated name for their daughters. Priscilla has also inspired variations and nicknames, including Pris, Prissy, and Cilla, which add further versatility to the name.

Those named Priscilla are believed to possess certain characteristics associated with their name's meaning. They tend to be wise, kind-hearted, and possess a deep sense of spirituality. Priscilla has a graceful and refined aura that often manifests in their meticulous attention to detail and their desire for harmony in all aspects of life.

Throughout history and in various cultures, Priscilla has been associated with notable individuals. Priscilla Presley, for example, gained fame as the wife of legendary singer Elvis Presley. Priscilla Chan, a philanthropist and wife of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, also contributes to the name's legacy.

In conclusion, Priscilla is a name that holds both historical significance and a contemporary appeal. With its Latin roots and rich cultural associations, it has maintained its popularity over the years. Those named Priscilla embody a sense of wisdom, kindness, and spirituality, while also leaving their mark on various fields, from entertainment to philanthropy.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Priscilla over the years.

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Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Priscilla.

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