Name of the Day – Patrick

Happy St. Patrick’s Day, everyone!

Patrick comes from the Roman name Patricius, which is Latin for “nobleman.” Other forms of the name include Padraig (Irish), Patrice (French), Patricio (Spanish) and Patrizio (Italian). The name is often used for babies with Irish heritage (St. Patrick is Ireland’s patron saint) and for children born during mid-March (around St. Patrick’s Day).

Patrick has been consistently popular in the U.S.: since 1880, it has never not been among the top 200 baby names for boys. At its highest, it was ranked #30 (thrice during the 1960s); at its lowest, it was #167 (back in 1919).

I’d say the only thing to watch out for with this name is the androgynous nickname “Pat.” I’ve known many Patricks, and just about all of them are called Pat in their daily lives — some don’t mind, but others can’t stand it.