All about the name

Drusilla

Female

« Drusilla is a distinctive Latin-derived name meaning "daughter of Drusus," conveying strength and firmness, and historically associated with figures like Herod Agrippa I's daughter who converted to Judaism. »

#11263 last year

Meaning, origin, history

Drusilla is a unique and captivating name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Roman gens, or family, known as Drusiilae, which was quite prominent during the Roman Empire's early history. The name Drusilla itself means "daughter of Drusus," with Drusus being another Roman nomen (a type of family name) that translates to "firm" or "strong." Therefore, the name Drusilla could be interpreted as conveying a sense of strength and steadfastness. Historically, one notable figure associated with this name is Drusilla, who was a daughter of Herod Agrippa I, an Idumean king under Roman rule in the early 1st century AD. Drusilla was known for converting to Judaism from her initial Greek beliefs, and she played a significant role in the spread of Judaism among Romans. In literature, there is also a character named Drusilla in John Webster's tragic play "The Duchess of Malfi," first performed around 1623. This Drusilla is portrayed as a virtuous sister to the protagonist, the Duchess of Malfi herself. While Drusilla may not be among the most commonly used names today, its rich historical and cultural significance makes it an intriguing choice for those seeking a unique and meaningful name with Latin roots.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Drusilla since 1880

Total births
2,923
Total since 1880
Peak year
1955
88 births
in 2023
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+100%
vs previous 5 years