The Most Popular Names Beginning with P, Ranked

Choose the names beginning with P you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 25, 2024 06:15
In the sea of names that start with the letter P, pinpointing the right choice can often feel overwhelming. Whether you're naming a newborn, a pet, or crafting a character in your novel, beginning with the most popular options might provide some much-needed guidance. A list of top-rated names, shaped by collective opinions, can help highlight trends and preferences that resonate with many. By participating in voting, you contribute to the creation of a dynamic, community-driven ranking. This not only makes the list more reflective of current tastes but also more useful for everyone trying to make a choice. So, dive in, vote for your favorites, and see how they stack up against the competition in real-time.

What Are the Most Popular Names Beginning with P?

  1. 1
    86
    votes
    A classic name that has been popular for centuries, it is derived from the Greek name Petros, meaning "rock." It has been borne by several famous figures, including Saint Peter, the apostle, and Peter the Great, the Tsar of Russia.
    Peter is a given name commonly used for male individuals. It has origins in various cultures and is considered a classic and timeless name. It carries a strong and reliable connotation and has been popular throughout history.
    • Origin: The name Peter can be traced back to ancient Greek and Latin origins.
    • Meaning: Peter means "rock" or "stone".
    • Popularity: Peter has been a popular name worldwide for centuries.
    • Famous Namesakes: Peter the Apostle, Peter Parker (Spider-Man), Peter Pan.
    • Variations: Petrus (Latin), Pietro (Italian), Pedro (Spanish), Petr (Czech).
  2. 2
    38
    votes
    Another classic name with biblical origins, Paul means "small" or "humble." It was the name of the apostle who wrote many of the letters in the New Testament, and has been a popular name throughout history.
    The name Paul is of Latin origin and means 'small'. It is widely used as a given name for boys and occasionally for girls. Paul is a classic and timeless name that has been popular for centuries.
    • Gender: Primarily used for boys, but can also be used for girls.
    • Origin: Latin
    • Meaning: 'Small' or 'humble'
    • Popularity: Consistently popular throughout history
    • Pronunciation: Pawl (English), Pawl (German), Pohl (French)
  3. 3
    20
    votes
    A name with Irish origins, Patrick means "nobleman." It is the name of the patron saint of Ireland, and has been a popular name in both Ireland and the United States.
    Patrick is a masculine given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Latin name Patricius, meaning 'nobleman' or 'patrician'. The name Patrick is commonly associated with Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who is known for spreading Christianity in the country. It is a popular name in English-speaking countries and is often shortened to Pat or Paddy as a nickname.
    • Origin: Irish
    • Meaning: 'Nobleman' or 'patrician'
    • Associated with: Saint Patrick
    • Popularity: Common in English-speaking countries
    • Nicknames: Pat, Paddy
  4. 4
    18
    votes
    A name that originated as a surname, Paige means "young servant." It has become a popular name for girls in recent years, and is often associated with intelligence and sophistication.
    Paige is a unisex name of English origin. It was originally derived from the word 'page,' which referred to a young servant or attendant. Over time, the name Paige has become popular as a first name for both boys and girls.
    • Origin: English
    • Gender: Unisex
    • Meaning: 'Page' or 'young servant'
    • Popularity: Ranked #108 for girls and #512 for boys in the United States (2020)
    • Famous Namesakes: Paige Davis (TV host), Paige VanZant (MMA fighter), Paige Turco (actress)
  5. 5
    9
    votes
    A Greek name meaning "weaver," Penelope is often associated with the character from Homer's Odyssey who waited faithfully for her husband to return from war. It has become a popular name in recent years, especially among parents who appreciate its classic origins.
    Penelope is a feminine given name of Greek origin. It has gained popularity in recent years and is known for its elegant and timeless charm. The name Penelope originates from Greek mythology, where Penelope was the faithful wife of Odysseus, known for her intelligence and wit. The name has a poetic and romantic sound, often associated with beauty and grace.
    • Origin: Greek
    • Meaning: Faithful wife
    • Gender: Feminine
    • Popularity: Growing in recent years
    • Association: Greek mythology
  6. 6
    3
    votes
    A unisex name that has become more popular for girls in recent years, Peyton means "from the town of Paega." It has a modern, trendy feel, and is often associated with successful athletes and celebrities.
    Peyton is a modern unisex name of English origin. It is derived from traditional English surnames meaning 'Pæga's town' or 'Payne's town'. It gained popularity in recent years due to its association with American football quarterback Peyton Manning.
    • Gender: Unisex
    • Origin: English
    • Meaning: 'Pæga's town' or 'Payne's town'
    • Famous Namesakes: Peyton Manning (American football quarterback)
    • Popularity: Popular in recent years
  7. 7
    14
    votes
    A name that originated as a surname, Paige means "young servant." It has become a popular name for girls in recent years, and is often associated with intelligence and sophistication.
    Paige is a unisex name of English origin. It was originally derived from the word 'page,' which referred to a young servant or attendant. Over time, the name Paige has become popular as a first name for both boys and girls.
    • Origin: English
    • Gender: Unisex
    • Meaning: 'Page' or 'young servant'
    • Popularity: Ranked #108 for girls and #512 for boys in the United States (2020)
    • Famous Namesakes: Paige Davis (TV host), Paige VanZant (MMA fighter), Paige Turco (actress)
  8. 8
    2
    votes
    A name that was first popularized in the 1950s, Pamela means "all sweetness." It has a vintage feel, and is often associated with the character from the novel Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded.
    Pamela is a feminine given name that originated from the Greek name 'Pamēla' meaning 'honeyed sweetness' or 'all sweetness'. It gained popularity in the English-speaking world during the mid-20th century.
    • Meaning: Honeyed sweetness, all sweetness
    • Origin: Greek
    • Popularity: Most popular from the mid-20th century to present day
    • Gender: Feminine
    • Variants: Pamelia, Pamina
  9. 9
    8
    votes
    A Greek name meaning "bright" or "shining," Phoebe has become more popular in recent years due to its association with the character from the television show Friends. It has a quirky, fun feel, and is often chosen by parents who want a unique yet classic name.
    Phoebe is a feminine given name of Greek origin. It derives from the Greek word 'phoibos,' meaning 'bright' or 'shining.' Phoebe became popular in English-speaking countries during the 17th century and has since remained a popular choice for girls.
    • Origin: Greek
    • Meaning: Bright, shining
    • Popularity: Remained popular since the 17th century
    • Gender: Feminine
    • Usage: English-speaking countries
  10. 10
    8
    votes
    A name that originated as a surname, Paige means "young servant." It has become a popular name for girls in recent years, and is often associated with intelligence and sophistication.
    Paige is a unisex name of English origin. It was originally derived from the word 'page,' which referred to a young servant or attendant. Over time, the name Paige has become popular as a first name for both boys and girls.
    • Origin: English
    • Gender: Unisex
    • Meaning: 'Page' or 'young servant'
    • Popularity: Ranked #108 for girls and #512 for boys in the United States (2020)
    • Famous Namesakes: Paige Davis (TV host), Paige VanZant (MMA fighter), Paige Turco (actress)

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Ranking factors for popular names beginning with P

  1. Name frequency
    The number of people with a particular name in a given population is an essential determining factor of popularity. This can be obtained from databases like national census records, birth registries, or social media data.
  2. Geographic distribution
    Names that are popular in one region may not be as popular in another. So, consider the context of rankings being done, such as national vs regional popularity or variations across different countries.
  3. Cultural factors
    Names can have cultural significance, and this can impact their popularity. For example, some names might be popular among certain religious or ethnic groups, giving them more prominence in communities with a higher representation of the group.
  4. Pronunciation and spelling
    Names that are easy to pronounce or spell typically gain more popularity. However, unique and distinctive names might also stand out and attract attention, increasing their popularity.
  5. Namesakes or public figures
    The popularity of names can be influenced by famous personalities or characters in literature, movies, or TV shows. People may choose names for their children based on their favorite celebrities or characters, making those names more popular.
  6. Gender-neutral or unisex names
    Some names can be suitable for both boys and girls, which can make them more popular when compared to names that are gender-specific.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular names beginning with P. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Name is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 3761 views
  • 194 votes
  • 10 ranked items

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Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Name once every 24 hours. The rank of each Name is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular names beginning with p

When it comes to naming a child, parents often look for unique and meaningful monikers that reflect their values and aspirations. But sometimes, the most popular names can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity. In the case of names starting with "P," there are plenty of options to choose from. From classic choices like Peter and Patricia to modern favorites like Peyton and Penelope, the letters "P" has produced some of the most enduring and beloved names in history. Whether you're expecting a child or simply curious about the trends in baby names, exploring the most popular "P" names can offer a glimpse into the cultural and social factors that shape our choices.

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