What does Patience mean and where does it come from?
The name Patience reflects one of the cardinal virtues and has been used primarily in English-speaking countries since the Middle Ages. Its popularity peaked in the 17th century. Famous bearers include Patience Wright, the first American-born female sculptor.
Cultural significance
Patience has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #577 in 2006 — currently #1297 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Patience?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Patience?
Patience works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Patience Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Patience Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Patience Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Patience Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Patience Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Patience Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Patience right now?
Rising — up 27 spots — currently #1297 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1297 | 172 | ▲ up 27 · -1% births |
| 2024 | #1324 | 174 | ▼ down 115 · -12% births |
| 2023 | #1209 | 197 | ▼ down 23 · -3% births |
| 2022 | #1186 | 203 | ▼ down 102 · -12% births |
| 2021 | #1084 | 231 | ▲ up 6 · +4% births |
| 2020 | #1090 | 222 | ▼ down 8 · -8% births |
| 2015 | #1082 | 242 | ▼ down 280 · -29% births |
| 2010 | #802 | 341 | ▼ down 199 · -28% births |
| 2005 | #603 | 472 | ▲ up 291 · +92% births |
| 2000 | #894 | 246 | ▲ up 11 · +18% births |
| 1995 | #905 | 209 | ▲ up 147 · +23% births |
| 1990 | #1052 | 170 | ▲ up 736 · +170% births |
| 1985 | #1788 | 63 | ▼ down 537 · -39% births |
| 1980 | #1251 | 104 | ▲ up 8 · +17% births |
| 1975 | #1259 | 89 | — |
The story of Patience
Patience has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 11,441 babies have received this name. Once ranked #726 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1209 in 2023. Patience is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Patience in 2006:
Patience by decade
Patience peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 59 | |
| 1890s | 82 | |
| 1900s | 75 | |
| 1910s | 144 | |
| 1920s | 163 | |
| 1930s | 171 | |
| 1940s | 216 | |
| 1950s | 258 | |
| 1960s | 360 | |
| 1970s | 749 | |
| 1980s | 759 | |
| 1990s | 2,040 | |
| 2000s ★ | 3,527 | |
| 2010s | 2,616 | |
| 2020s | 568 | |
What are good nicknames for Patience?
What names sound and feel like Patience?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Patience also consider these
Common questions about the name Patience
What does the name Patience mean?
Patience means "English" — a name rooted in English tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Patience?
Patience is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Patience?
Patience originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Patience?
Patience is a two-syllable name pronounced PAY-shuns. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Patience a common or rare name?
Patience is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.