Padraic is a unique and distinctive Irish given name for boys. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient Irish language, where it was originally spelled as Pádraig. This name has been used in Ireland for centuries and has become one of the most popular Irish names over time.
The meaning behind Padraic is "noble" or "illustrious," which comes from the Old Irish word 'pátrúin,' meaning "wide" or "noble." This name was traditionally given to boys who were expected to grow into respected and honorable individuals. It's also worth noting that Pádraig, the Gaelic form of Padraic, is often associated with Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures named Padraic or Pádraig. One famous bearer of this name was Pádraig Pearse, an Irish revolutionary leader and one of the signatories of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic in 1916. Another well-known figure is Pádraig Flynn, a former Irish politician who served as Minister for Foreign Affairs from 1993 to 1997.
In recent years, Padraic has gained popularity as an alternative choice for parents looking for unique and meaningful Irish names for their sons. Despite its long history and rich cultural significance, this name remains relatively uncommon outside of Ireland, making it a standout choice for those wishing to honor their Irish heritage or simply choose a distinctive name with a powerful meaning.
The name Padraic has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States, as reflected in these annual birth statistics from 1955 to 2023.
The name's highest point of popularity occurred in 1982, with a total of 36 births recorded that year. This could be attributed to various factors such as increased immigration from countries where the name is more prevalent or a greater interest in unique and uncommon names among parents during that period.
From 1955 to 1970, the number of Padraic births fluctuated between 6 to 20 per year. However, there was a significant increase in popularity during the late 70s and early 80s, reaching its peak in 1982.
After 1982, the popularity of the name started to decline steadily. By the end of the 90s and into the 2000s, Padraic births consistently fell below 20 per year. The most recent data available from 2020 and 2023 shows a further decrease in popularity, with only 5 births each year.
Overall, while Padraic has seen periods of increased popularity over the years, it remains a relatively uncommon name in the United States. Its total number of births from 1955 to 2023 is 973, indicating that it's a name that stands out due to its uniqueness and rarity.