Declining since 1986.
Popularity of Prentiss since 1887
Babies named Prentiss per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1943, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Prentiss's real moment was 1907.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 11 |
| 1900s | 47 |
| 1910s | 180 |
| 1920s | 254 |
| 1930s | 255 |
| 1940s | 328 |
| 1950s | 343 |
| 1960s | 299 |
| 1970s | 304 |
| 1980s | 284 |
| 1990s | 179 |
| 2000s | 116 |
| 2010s | 97 |
| 2020s | 22 |
Meaning & origin
Prentiss is a rare masculine given name with English surname origins, first recorded in 1887. It reached its peak usage in 1907, ranking highest in the early 1900s, but has since fallen out of favor, with a declining trajectory since 1986. For example, while it was used occasionally in the early 20th century, it has not appeared in recent popularity rankings. Its rarity makes it a distinctive choice, though it lacks the widespread recognition of more common surname-names. The name's connection to the word 'apprentice' gives it a historical, occupational feel.
Prentiss is an English surname transferred to given name use. The surname likely originated as a variant of Prentice, which derives from Middle English 'prentis' meaning 'apprentice'. Alternatively, it may be a locational name referring to a place associated with a priest. It saw limited use as a masculine given name in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the United States.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Prent, Prez
Sibling names for Prentiss
Names that share Prentiss's style, for a brother or sister.
