Patricia
Girl name · 1,226 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Patricia: 1,226 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 123 births in 1974.
Patricia is the feminine form of the Latin Patricius, meaning “nobleman” or “patrician”—a member of the ancient Roman ruling class. The name was popularised in the English-speaking world through Irish and Scottish connections to Saint Patrick (patricius means “father of the people” in a Christian context) and became especially common in the 20th century. Famous bearers include Oscar-winning actress Patricia Neal, celebrated for her role in *Hud*, and crime novelist Patricia Highsmith, who created the unforgettable Tom Ripley. The name also appears in place-names such as the Canadian province’s Patricia Bay, and shares its root with Patrick—making it a natural sibling for that classic Scottish staple. Variants like Tricia and Patty offer shorter, friendly alternatives, while Patrice keeps the French elegance. Once a top ten name in Scotland, Patricia now feels timelessly classic.
Girl 39 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 1974123 babies
- Latest (2020)
- #7653 babies
- Total births
- 1,226since 1974
- 5-year trend
- ≈ stablevs prior 5y