Rising since 2010, #5,554 for girls today.
Popularity of Perpetua since 2007
Babies named Perpetua per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 7 |
| 2010s | 90 |
| 2020s | 102 |
Meaning & origin
Perpetua is a rare but historically rich name that has been climbing in popularity in recent years. First recorded in the U.S. in 2007, it reached its peak rank in 2025 at 5,554th, with a 1-in-73,058 birth rate. The name's trajectory has been rising since 2010, indicating growing interest in classical and saintly names. While it has no top states showing particular concentration, its appeal may be broad among parents seeking a name with early Christian heritage and a timeless meaning. Perpetua offers a strong, virtuous image without being commonly used, making it a distinctive choice.
Perpetua is the feminine form of the Latin name Perpetuus, derived from the word 'perpetuus' meaning 'continuous, everlasting'. The name is best known from Saint Perpetua, a Christian martyr who died in Carthage in 203 CE. It has been used sporadically in Christian countries, especially among Catholics, but remains rare in English-speaking countries. In recent years, it has seen a slight revival as a distinctive classic name.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Pet, Peta, Perpy
Variants: Perpetue
Sibling names for Perpetua
Names that share Perpetua's style, for a brother or sister.
