Meaning, origin, history
Precious is a unique and beautiful name of African origin, specifically from the Igbo tribe in Nigeria. It is derived from the word "precious" which means highly prized or valuable. This name has been used by both boys and girls but it is more commonly given to females.
The meaning behind this name is profound as it signifies that someone is highly regarded, cherished, or esteemed. This makes it a wonderful choice for parents who want their child's name to reflect how much they are loved and valued from the very beginning of their lives.
In Nigeria, Precious has been popular among the Igbo people for generations. It became even more widespread after Nigeria gained independence in 1960, as many families chose names that reflected their pride in being part of this new nation. Today, Precious remains a beloved name throughout Africa and beyond, often selected by parents who want to give their child an elegant yet meaningful moniker.
One famous person with the name Precious is American actress Precious Doe (born Precious Williams), who gained widespread recognition for her role in the movie "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire." Although she was born with a different given name, she later chose to take on the stage name Precious Doe to honor her late cousin who had gone missing.
Overall, Precious is an enchanting name with deep roots in African culture and history. Its meaning makes it an excellent choice for parents looking for a name that truly represents their child's worth and importance in their lives.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Precious since 1880
Total births
19,268
Total since 1880
Peak year
2001
746 births
in 2023
69
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-21%
↘
vs previous 5 years