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Origin and meaning of the name Patrice

What is the origin of the name Patrice?

The first name "Patrice" has origins in both French and Latin. In French, Patrice is a masculine given name that is derived from the Latin name "Patricius." This Latin name was originally a Roman cognomen, a third name which was commonly added by the Romans to indicate membership in a certain family or clan. "Patricius" was derived from "pater," the Latin word for "father," and was usually bestowed upon the sons of Roman patrician families. In the English-speaking world, the name Patrice is often used as a unisex name, given to both males and females. However, it is worth noting that in French, Patrice is primarily considered a masculine name. Overall, the name Patrice has roots in both the Latin and French languages, with its meaning often associated with paternal or noble lineage.

Learn more about the origin of the name Patrice

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Patrice

The name Patrice is derived from the Latin name Patricius, which means "noble" or "belonging to a patrician." It has French origins and is commonly used as both a masculine and feminine name. Patrice is often given to children as a unisex name, emphasizing its gender-neutral characteristics. Historically, the name Patrice gained popularity in France during the 17th century, particularly as a masculine name. In recent times, it has become increasingly common as a feminine name in English-speaking countries. The name gained further recognition through prominent individuals like Patrice Lumumba, the first democratically elected Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Overall, the name Patrice carries a connotation of nobility, elegance, and strength. It is a fitting choice for parents seeking a versatile name that can be used for both boys and girls.

Character traits associated with the name Patrice

Patrice is often associated with an array of admirable character traits. Primarily, individuals named Patrice tend to be highly determined and ambitious, consistently striving for success in their endeavors. They possess a strong sense of purpose and are not easily discouraged, displaying resilience in the face of challenges. Patrice are known to be independent and self-reliant, preferring to rely on their own abilities to achieve their goals. They are often described as intelligent and innovative, constantly seeking new ideas and solutions to problems. Patrice also possess excellent interpersonal skills and are known for their kind and empathetic nature, always willing to lend a helping hand. They value connection and build meaningful relationships with others. Furthermore, individuals named Patrice are known for their strong sense of justice and fairness, standing up for what they believe in and advocating for others. Their unwavering determination, compassion, and integrity make them an exceptional addition to any environment they find themselves in.

Popularity of the name Patrice

The name Patrice has seen varying levels of popularity over the years. In the United States, it gained its peak popularity during the 1970s and 1980s. From 1970 to 1979, Patrice ranked as the 223rd most popular name for girls, indicating a significant number of parents choosing this name for their newborn daughters. Its popularity slightly declined in the 1990s, but remained moderately common. It is worth noting that Patrice is often used as a gender-neutral name, with people of both genders adopting it. In recent years, the name Patrice has seen a steady decline in popularity, falling out of the top 1000 names in the United States. However, it still retains a level of cultural significance and holds a special place in the hearts of those who bear this name or chose it for their children. Ultimately, the popularity of the name Patrice may vary depending on the country or region in which it is considered.

Famous people with the name Patrice

Patrice, a popular first name, has been carried by various notable individuals across different fields. Patrice Lumumba, an influential figure in Africa's fight against colonialism, served as the first democratically elected Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. His efforts for independence and Pan-Africanism made him a prominent leader of the decolonization movement. In the realm of sports, Patrice Bergeron, a Canadian ice hockey player, has made a significant impact on the Boston Bruins. Known for his exceptional defensive skills and leadership qualities, Bergeron is regarded as one of the premier two-way forwards in the National Hockey League. Another prominent figure named Patrice is Patrice Evra, a former French international football player. Evra gained fame for his stellar performances as a left-back, particularly during his time with Manchester United, where he won five English Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League. These remarkable individuals have left a lasting impact on their respective fields and brought recognition to the name Patrice.

Variations of the name Patrice

Patrice is a versatile name that can be found in various forms and variations across different cultures. In French, it is a unisex name, commonly used for both males and females. For males, the masculine form of Patrice is often paired with the surname as a double-barreled name, such as Jean-Patrice or Louis-Patrice. On the other hand, the female variant of the name in French is often spelled as Patricia or Patrizia. In English-speaking countries, Patrice is mostly recognized as a feminine name, whereas Patrick is its male counterpart. Some other variations of Patrice include Patricio in Spanish, Patricija in Slovenian, or Patrizio in Italian. These variations demonstrate the global appeal and adaptability of the name Patrice, allowing individuals to showcase their unique cultural and linguistic backgrounds while still maintaining its fundamental essence.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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