Meaning, origin, history
Patrice is a masculine given name of Latin origin. It comes from the Roman family name Patricius, which was derived from the word "patres," meaning "fathers." The name was originally used to denote the descendants of the patricians, the highest class in ancient Roman society.
The name Patrice has been popular throughout history and across various cultures. In France, it was commonly used during the Middle Ages and remained popular throughout the 20th century. It is also a popular name in Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Patrice. One of the most famous was Saint Patrick (also known as Patricius), who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland in the 5th century. Another notable figure was Patrice Lumumba, the first prime minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, who played a key role in its independence from Belgium.
Today, the name Patrice continues to be used around the world, although its popularity has waned somewhat since the mid-20th century. It remains a strong and distinctive name with a rich history and meaning behind it. Whether you're considering naming your child Patrice or simply have an interest in names and their origins, this name is one that offers plenty of intrigue and significance.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Patrice since 1880
Total births
773
Total since 1880
Peak year
1961
38 births
in 2023
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+38%
↗
vs previous 5 years