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Patrick

3 min read 1 views Updated December 21, 2025 3.0/10

Introduction

Patrick is a common given name for males, originating from various cultures and languages. The name has a rich history, with roots in ancient mythologies and modern-day popularity.

The origins of the name Patrick are uncertain, but it is believed to be derived from the Latin name Patricius, meaning "nobleman" or "patrician." In Irish mythology, Saint Patrick was a 5th-century missionary who converted the Irish people to Christianity. The name has since been associated with several notable individuals throughout history.

History/Background

One of the most famous Patricks in history is Saint Patrick, born Maewyn Succat around 385 AD in Roman Britain. He was kidnapped by Irish raiders and taken to Ireland, where he spent six years as a slave before escaping and returning to Britain.

Patrick later became a Christian missionary and returned to Ireland, using his experience as a slave to spread Christianity throughout the country. He used the shamrock, a three-leafed plant, to explain the Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish.

The name Patrick gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly in the United States, where it was often associated with Catholicism and Irish heritage. Today, the name remains popular worldwide, with various spellings and variations.

Etymology

The name Patrick is derived from the Latin Patricius, meaning "nobleman" or "patrician." The name has been adapted into various languages, including Old English as Pattic, French as Patrice, and Irish as Pádraig.

Variations

  • Patrick (English)
  • Patrice (French)
  • Patricio (Spanish)
  • Petri (Finnish)
  • Pádraig (Irish)

Key Concepts

The name Patrick is often associated with several key concepts, including:

  • Christianity: Saint Patrick is a prominent figure in Irish Christian history and the patron saint of Ireland.
  • Celtic culture: The shamrock, a three-leafed plant, has become an iconic symbol of Irish heritage and Celtic culture.
  • Irish heritage: The name Patrick is often associated with Irish ancestry and cultural identity.

Technical Details

The following statistics are based on available data from the United States Census Bureau (2020 estimates):

Year Frequency
2019 236,141
2020 243,111

Applications/Uses

The name Patrick has been used in various contexts, including:

  • Fictional characters: Patricio from the animated series "Rick and Morty" is a notable example.
  • Business names: Patrick's Foods, a restaurant chain founded by actor Patrick Huard, is another example.

Impact/Significance

The name Patrick has had a significant impact on popular culture, including:

  • Cinema: The 2016 film "The Revenant" features a character named Patrick, played by Domhnall Gleeson.
  • Music: The 1970s rock band Patrick and the Deadlights was an American band.

The name Patrick is related to several other topics, including:

  • Celtic mythology: Saint Patrick's story is a famous example of Celtic mythology.
  • Irish history: The name Patrick is associated with several notable figures in Irish history.

References & Further Reading

References / Further Reading

  • "Saint Patrick." Britannica.com. Retrieved 2022-02-10.
  • "Patrick, Saint." Catholic Encyclopedia. New Advent Publications, 1913.
  • United States Census Bureau. (2020). Name and Surname Data.
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