A 1930s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Patsy since 1880
Babies named Patsy per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1880s | 193 | 5 |
| 1890s | 229 | 21 |
| 1900s | 385 | 171 |
| 1910s | 1,206 | 1,845 |
| 1920s | 8,228 | 2,895 |
| 1930s | 36,475 | 1,418 |
| 1940s | 40,282 | 623 |
| 1950s | 21,734 | 357 |
| 1960s | 6,919 | 233 |
| 1970s | 1,746 | 84 |
| 1980s | 845 | 50 |
| 1990s | 690 | 11 |
| 2000s | 257 | 0 |
| 2010s | 150 | 0 |
| 2020s | 109 | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Patsy enjoyed its peak popularity in 1936, ranking among the top names for girls during that decade. After declining for many years, the name has been rising in use since 2018, reflecting the revival of vintage names from the 1930s. With its friendly, familiar sound, Patsy appeals to parents seeking a retro nickname name with a touch of nostalgia. Despite currently ranking 5,917th, its upward trajectory suggests a growing appreciation for this classic yet playful choice.
Patsy originated as a pet form of Patricia, which comes from the Latin 'patricius' meaning 'nobleman' or 'patrician'. It has been used independently since the 18th century, particularly in Ireland and among English-speaking communities.
Where Patsy is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Pat, Trish
Variants: Patricia
Sibling names for Patsy
Names that share Patsy's style, for a brother or sister.
