Priscilla is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Roman family name Prisca, which in turn comes from the verb 'priscus', meaning 'ancient' or 'old'. The name Priscilla was quite popular during the early Christian era due to its association with several prominent figures in the New Testament of the Bible.
One such figure was Priscilla, a fellow worker of Paul and Aquila, who were all tentmakers by trade. They traveled together and established churches in various places such as Corinth and Ephesus. Another notable Priscilla was an early Christian woman mentioned in Romans 16:3-4, where she is described as a "hardworking" woman who had been helpful to many.
The name Priscilla gained further popularity during the Middle Ages when it was adopted by several saints and martyrs of the Catholic Church. One such saint was Saint Priscilla, who was martyred in Rome around 304 AD during the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian.
In modern times, the name Priscilla has been used by a few notable figures, including American actress Priscilla Presley, former wife of Elvis Presley, and Australian singer-songwriter Prinnie Stevens. It continues to be a popular choice among parents for their daughters, often as a nod to its historical and biblical significance.
Overall, the name Priscilla carries with it a rich history rooted in ancient Roman culture and early Christian tradition. Its meaning "ancient" or "old" adds an air of timelessness and wisdom to the name, making it a strong and distinctive choice for a girl's name.
The name Priscilla has seen a varied popularity over the years in the United States, as indicated by the birth statistics provided. The earliest year listed is 1923, with 6 births recorded that year. Over the next decade, the number of babies named Priscilla fluctuated, reaching a peak of 11 births in 1941.
The name's popularity seemed to decline somewhat during the 1950s and 1960s, with fewer than 10 births each year between 1952 and 1963. However, it started to regain traction in the late 1970s and early 1980s, with a significant spike in 1985 when 14 babies were named Priscilla.
The name's popularity continued to fluctuate throughout the 1990s, with a high of 14 births in 1991 and a low of 5 births each in 1992 and 1994. Despite these fluctuations, it is clear that the name Priscilla has maintained some level of popularity over the decades.
In total, there have been 244 babies named Priscilla born in the United States since 1923, according to the statistics provided. While the name may not have reached the heights of popularity enjoyed by some other names, it nevertheless remains a distinctive and enduring choice for parents seeking a classic yet unique name for their daughters.