MallowbyNames

Prisilla

pri-SIL-uh · Of uncertain meaning; likely a variant of Priscilla, which is from the Latin name Priscilla, a feminine form of Priscus, meaning 'ancient' or 'venerable'.

Peak popularity
2002
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Prisilla since 1963

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

101929198020002020Most births 2002Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1960s11
1970s47
1980s136
1990s190
2000s208
2010s48
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Prisilla is a rare modern variant of Priscilla, first recorded in U.S. data in 1963. It has never cracked the top 1000 names, with its peak usage occurring in 2002, when it was slightly more common than in other years. The name has remained stable in usage since then, with very few annual births. Its spelling likely reflects a simplified, phonetic adaptation of the traditional Priscilla. Because of its rarity, it does not have strong ties to any particular state or region. The name carries a gentle, vintage feel while remaining distinctive.

Prisilla is a modern English variant of the classical name Priscilla. Priscilla itself derives from the Roman family name Priscus, meaning 'ancient' or 'venerable'. The name appears in the New Testament as a companion of Paul, which gave it currency among early Christians. The variant form Prisilla emerged in the 20th century, likely influenced by the phonetic appeal of names like 'Priscilla' with a simplified spelling.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Prissy, Cilla, Silla

Variants: Priscilla, Priscila, Priscella

Sibling names for Prisilla

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

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

P is for Prisilla, our favorite little girl.

P is for Prisilla…”

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

Make Prisilla's book

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Questions parents ask

What does the name Prisilla mean?
Prisilla is a variant of Priscilla, which is thought to mean 'ancient' or 'venerable' from the Latin word 'priscus'.
How popular is the name Prisilla?
Prisilla has never ranked in the top 1000 U.S. names. Its peak usage was in 2002, but it remains rare.
Is Prisilla a girl's name?
Yes, Prisilla is almost exclusively used for girls.