Pryce is a unique and distinctive given name of Welsh origin. It is derived from the Welsh surname Prys, which is believed to have been an early form of the personal name Pryderi, meaning "anxious" or "careful." The name Pryderi itself is thought to have been derived from the Proto-Celtic elements *preitos meaning "care" or "anxiety," and *dīros meaning "worthy."
The name Pryce is associated with several figures in Welsh history and mythology. One of the most notable is Pryderi ap Pwyll, a legendary king of Dyfed in southwest Wales. According to the Welsh medieval collection of tales known as the Mabinogion, Pryderi was the son of Pwyll, the first king of Dyfed, and Rhiannon. He was said to be a wise and just ruler, and his story has been passed down through generations as part of the lore of Wales.
The name Pryce also has connections to other notable figures in Welsh history, including Pryce Jones, a Welsh entrepreneur who founded the first mail-order business in the world in the 19th century. Today, the name Pryce is still used as a given name in Wales and among Welsh communities around the world, often as a way of honoring Welsh heritage and cultural traditions.
In recent years, the name Pryce has also gained popularity beyond its traditional Welsh boundaries. It has been used as a given name for boys in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. While it remains relatively rare compared to more common names like James or William, Pryce's unique sound and Welsh heritage have contributed to its growing appeal.
Overall, the name Pryce is a distinctive and historic choice with deep roots in Welsh culture and mythology. Its unique sound and rich history make it an attractive option for parents looking for a name that is both meaningful and memorable.
The name Pryce has seen a varied level of popularity over the past two decades in the United States. In 2005, there were 7 babies named Pryce. This number dropped to 6 in 2007 and remained steady at 6 births in 2012. However, the name gained some traction in 2013 with a total of 10 births that year.
After 2013, the popularity of the name Pryce began to decline once again. In 2017, there were only 6 babies named Pryce, and this number continued to decrease over time. In both 2020 and 2021, there were 5 births each year with the name Pryce. Most recently, in 2023, there were once again 5 babies named Pryce.
Over this 18-year period, a total of 50 babies have been named Pryce in the United States.