Priscila is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Roman family name Prisca, which means "ancient" or "venerable". The name Priscilla was first used in the New Testament of the Bible as one of Paul and Aquila's wives. They were both tentmakers and early Christian missionaries who traveled together to various cities preaching the gospel.
The name Priscila gained popularity during the Middle Ages in Europe, particularly among Christians who admired the biblical figure. It was often given to girls born around that time and has since become a popular choice for parents looking for unique yet meaningful names for their daughters.
Today, Priscila is still used as a given name throughout the world, with variations such as Prisca, Prisilla, and Presila. While it may not be as common as some other feminine names, those who bear this name carry with them a rich history and meaningful significance rooted in ancient times.
The name Priscila experienced significant popularity growth over time, with a substantial increase starting from the late 1960s to peak in the mid-1990s. After reaching an all-time high of 257 births in 2002, it has since declined but remains relatively popular today, with around 80-90 births per year in recent years. In total, over a span of nearly six decades (1964-2023), the name Priscila has been given to approximately 4741 newborns.