Declining since 1997, #3,130 for girls today.
Popularity of Precious since 1897
Babies named Precious per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 11 |
| 1900s | 55 |
| 1910s | 113 |
| 1920s | 208 |
| 1930s | 138 |
| 1940s | 168 |
| 1950s | 165 |
| 1960s | 326 |
| 1970s | 1,020 |
| 1980s | 3,555 |
| 1990s | 6,305 |
| 2000s | 5,454 |
| 2010s | 1,456 |
| 2020s | 419 |
Meaning & origin
Precious is an English word name that conveys intrinsic worth and affection. It first appeared on U.S. birth records in 1897, but saw its greatest popularity in the late 1990s, reaching a peak rank in 1998. Since 1997, its usage has been steadily declining, though it remains in regular use. The name has been most concentrated in Texas among top states. Precious reflects the enduring appeal of virtue names and remains a meaningful choice for families valuing a direct expression of love and value.
Precious derives directly from the English word 'precious,' meaning of great value or esteemed. It has been used as a given name in English-speaking countries since at least the late 19th century, often as a term of endearment. The name saw a notable rise in popularity during the 1990s and early 2000s, reflecting a broader trend of virtue names and word names.
Where Precious 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.
“Precious” around the world
Where Precious lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Ireland
3
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Prec, Pre
Sibling names for Precious
Names that share Precious's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Precious
Names whose popularity has moved with Precious's over the last 50 years.
