Patrick

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Patrick

Gender Boy
Origin Celtic
Letters 7
Syllables 2
Pronunciation PA-trick

Patrick, which has 7 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Celtic origin.

Meaning of Patrick

Nobleman

Patrick is a given name derived from the Latin name Patricius, meaning “nobleman” or “patrician”. The name Patrick is also associated with Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who is said to have used the three-leaved shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity.

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Meaning Nobleman
Origin Celtic
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #221 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Moderate (Top 250)
Era 60s name

Background & History of The Name Patrick

The name Patrick is derived from the Latin name Patricius, which means "noble" or "patrician." It is a common given name for boys and has its origins in Ireland. Patrick is widely recognized as the patron saint of Ireland, credited with bringing Christianity to the island in the fifth century. He is celebrated on St. Patrick's Day, which falls on March 17th every year. Historically, the name Patrick has been associated with qualities such as courage, intelligence, and leadership.

In addition to its Irish roots, the name Patrick has a strong presence in various cultures across the world. It became popular in Scotland and other English-speaking countries due to the influence of Irish immigration. Many notable figures bear the name, such as the famous Irish writer and poet Patrick Kavanagh and the American actor Patrick Stewart.

As a given name, Patrick holds significance in both religious and secular contexts. In Christianity, the name Patrick is associated with a saintly figure who is believed to have performed miracles and converted thousands of people to Christianity. The name gained popularity and spread throughout Europe during the medieval period.

From a linguistic perspective, the name Patrick has undergone various changes and variations over time. In different languages, it can be spelled slightly differently, such as Padraig in Irish or Patricio in Spanish. These variations reflect the influence of different cultures and languages on the name's evolution.

In modern times, the name Patrick remains widespread and enduring. It continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a classic and timeless name for their sons. The name's cultural and historical significance, as well as its positive attributes, contribute to its enduring popularity.

Popularity Over Time

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

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