MallowbyNames

Patsey

PAT-see · Of uncertain origin; possibly a diminutive of Patricia, meaning 'noble'.

Peak popularity
1942
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Patsey since 1911

Babies named Patsey per year in U.S. Social Security records.

91726192019602000Most births 1942Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1910s11
1920s32
1930s143
1940s177
1950s118
1960s26
1970s0
1980s0
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Patsey is a name that carries a nostalgic weight from its mid-century peak. First recorded in U.S. data in 1911, it saw its highest usage in 1942, a time when soft, friendly diminutives were fashionable for girls. Though the name does not currently rank among popular choices, its trajectory since the 1940s has been stable and low, with no resurgence in recent decades. Patsey's classic, informal charm may appeal to those seeking a vintage name with a cheerful sound. The name has no strong association with any particular state, reflecting its modest but nationwide use.

Patsey likely originated as a variant or diminutive of Patricia, the feminine form of Patrick, derived from the Latin 'Patricius' meaning 'nobleman'. In Irish contexts, Patricia and its variants became popular as a feminine equivalent of the Irish saint's name. Patsey also saw use as a nickname for Martha in some 19th-century American records. The name peaked in usage during the early 20th century, with a notable peak in 1942.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Pat, Patsy

Variants: Patsy, Patty, Patrice

Sibling names for Patsey

Names that share Patsey's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

P is for Patsey, our favorite little girl.

P is for Patsey…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Patsey's letter becomes Patsey's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Patsey's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Patsey mean?
The meaning of Patsey is uncertain; it is most often considered a diminutive of Patricia, meaning 'noble', but also has historical use as a nickname for Martha.
How popular is the name Patsey?
Patsey first appeared in U.S. records in 1911, peaked in 1942, and has seen very limited use since. It is not currently ranked in the top 1000.
Is Patsey a boy or girl name?
Patsey is predominantly a feminine name, though historically it has occasionally been used for boys as a variant of Patrick.