All about the name

Parrish

Female

« Parrish is a rare English given name derived from the surnames Parris or Parish, originally meaning 'parish priest', and associated with the French word 'paradis'. »

#13219 over 5 years

Meaning, origin, history

Parrish is a unique and uncommon given name of English origin. It is derived from the surname Parris or Parish, which was originally an occupational name for a parish priest. The name is also associated with the town of Paris in France, as well as the French word 'paradis', meaning paradise. The name Parrish has a rich history dating back to medieval England. In the 13th century, the name was recorded as Parreys and Peres in early census records. Over time, the name evolved into various forms such as Parris, Parish, and eventually Parrish. In literature, the name Parrish gained popularity through the works of American author John Dos Passos. In his novel "Three Soldiers", one of the main characters is named John Parrish. This exposure may have contributed to the increased use of the name in the United States during the early 20th century. Today, Parrish remains a rare and distinctive given name. According to data from the Social Security Administration, only a handful of babies are named Parrish each year in the United States. Despite its rarity, the name continues to appeal to parents who seek unique and meaningful names for their children. In summary, Parrish is an uncommon English given name with historical roots tracing back to medieval times. It is derived from the surname Parris or Parish, which originated as an occupational name for a parish priest. The name has been used throughout history but remains relatively rare today, making it a unique choice for parents looking for distinctive names for their children.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Parrish since 1880

Total births
478
Total since 1880
Peak year
1992
26 births
in 2022
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+9%
vs previous 5 years