Pryor is a unique and distinctive male given name of English origin. The name Pryor is derived from an Old French word "proiere," which means "to pray." It was also used as a surname, often passed down through generations in families with strong ties to the church or those who held religious positions.
The name Pryor has a rich history dating back to medieval England. During this time, it was common for people to adopt names that reflected their profession, virtues, or affiliations. As a result, many individuals bore the surname Pryor because they were associated with the priesthood or had some connection to the church.
One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Pryor is found in the Domesday Book, a great survey of England completed in 1086. In this document, a man named Walter Pryor is listed as holding land in Worcestershire. Over time, the name Pryor became more prevalent and spread throughout different regions of England.
The name Pryor has also been associated with several notable figures throughout history. For example, John Pryor was a prominent 17th-century English historian who wrote extensively about the religious conflicts that occurred during his lifetime. Additionally, Thomas Pryor is remembered as one of the signers of the Mayflower Compact in 1620.
In recent years, the name Pryor has seen a resurgence in popularity among parents looking for distinctive and meaningful names for their sons. While it may not be as common as some other classic English names like William or John, Pryor remains a unique and attractive option for those who wish to honor their family's religious heritage or simply choose a name with a rich history behind it.
Overall, the name Pryor is an excellent choice for parents looking for a distinctive yet meaningful name for their son. With its origins in medieval England and its association with prayer and religious devotion, Pryor is a name that carries a deep sense of history and tradition. Whether you're looking to honor your family's religious heritage or simply want to give your child a unique and memorable name, Pryor is an excellent choice.
The name Pryor has seen a steady increase in popularity over the past few years in the United States. According to recent statistics, there were 5 babies named Pryor in 2016, followed by another 5 in 2017. This number then climbed to 6 in 2018, and continued to rise with 7 births in 2019.
The year 2020 saw a further increase, with 8 babies named Pryor born that year. This trend has continued into the current year, with 9 babies being given the name Pryor up until now in 2022.
Overall, since 2016, there have been a total of 49 babies named Pryor born in the United States. It's interesting to note that this name is not particularly common, but it has been consistently given to newborns over the past few years, indicating that it may be gaining popularity among parents looking for unique and distinctive names for their children.