Percival
Percival is a boy's name of French origin.
Meaning
Pierce the veil or valley; potentially derived from 'pierce-val'.
Origin and history
Percival is a classic name of Old French origin, famously associated with the legendary Arthurian knight who sought the Holy Grail. Although historically rare in the United States, it has seen a gentle modern revival among parents seeking an aristocratic, literary choice. Its literary roots give it an enduring, noble character.
Popularity in the United States
1,466 babies in the United States have been named Percival since 1880. It ranks #3264 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1516.
States where it is most popular
- TX (24.8 %)
- NY (13.6 %)
- CA (12.8 %)
- WI (12.8 %)
- TN (8.8 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 57 |
| 1890-1900 | 43 |
| 1900-1910 | 45 |
| 1910-1920 | 107 |
| 1920-1930 | 137 |
| 1930-1940 | 55 |
| 1940-1950 | 44 |
| 1950-1960 | 74 |
| 1960-1970 | 76 |
| 1970-1980 | 87 |
| 1980-1990 | 75 |
| 1990-2000 | 62 |
| 2000-2010 | 36 |
| 2010-2019 | 156 |
| 2020-2029 | 412 |
Famous people named Percival
- Percival Lowell: Astronomer, Businessman
Nicknames
Percy, Val
Fun facts
- Percival was created or popularized by Chrétien de Troyes in his 12th-century romance about the quest for the Holy Grail.
- The name appears frequently in English literature, including Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series.