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Percival
1. Percival name meaning and origin
The name Percival is of Old French origin, derived from the medieval name 'Perceval' or 'Parzival,' which first appeared in Arthurian legends. Etymologically, scholars believe it may have been formed from the Old French elements 'percer' (to pierce) and 'val' (valley), suggesting 'one who pierces the valley' or 'one who crosses the vale.' However, some linguistic experts propose it might alternatively come from the Welsh 'Peredur,' a name featured in early Welsh Arthurian tales.
Percival gained significant prominence in medieval literature as one of King Arthur's Knights of the Round Table. In these legends, he is portrayed as a pure and innocent knight who eventually becomes one of the successful seekers of the Holy Grail. The character was immortalized in Chrétien de Troyes' 12th-century romance 'Perceval, le Conte du Graal' and later in Wolfram von Eschenbach's 'Parzival,' which elevated the name to literary significance throughout Europe. This noble literary association has contributed to the name's enduring appeal as one conveying qualities of chivalry, purity, and heroic quest.
2. Percival name popularity
Girl
Boy
#0
in 2023
0
from 2022
Popularity of Percival
United States
United Kingdom
Percival is a masculine name with roots in Old French mythology, famously associated with one of King Arthur's Knights of the Round Table. Despite this noble heritage, the name has remained relatively uncommon in both the United States and United Kingdom, not appearing among the top-ranked names in either country's available records.
The name carries a distinguished quality with its literary and historical connections, yet has never achieved widespread popularity in modern times. Its relative rarity might appeal to parents seeking an uncommon yet recognizable name with strong cultural associations. The name Percival conveys a sense of chivalry and honor while maintaining its distinctive character in today's naming landscape.
3. Variations and nicknames of Percival
The name Percival has ancient origins, tracing back to medieval times when it gained prominence through Arthurian legends as one of King Arthur's Knights of the Round Table. Throughout history and across different languages and cultures, Percival has evolved into several variants. In French literature, the name appears as Perceval, while Welsh traditions refer to him as Peredur. Other linguistic variations include the Italian Percivale, the German Parzival (popularized by Wagner's opera), and the Spanish Perceval. In Scandinavian countries, one might encounter Parsifal, another operatic influence. Modern adaptations have also given rise to feminine forms such as Percivalia or Persephonia, though these remain relatively uncommon compared to the traditional masculine versions.
With its distinguished yet potentially formal impression, Percival naturally invites more approachable nicknames. The most common diminutives include Percy, which has become so established that it often stands as an independent name. Other affectionate shortenings include Perce, Perci, Val, and Civ. In family settings or among close friends, one might hear endearing variations like Perry, Persy, or simply P. Some bearers of the name opt for middle-name-based nicknames to avoid the formality of Percival in everyday situations. Among children, playful nicknames like Percy-pal or P-man occasionally emerge. The nickname Val, though less directly connected to the original, offers a more streamlined option that maintains a link to the distinguished origin while providing a more contemporary sound for those seeking to balance tradition with modernity.
4. Best name combinations with Percival
Middle names that pair well with Percival:
- Percival James
- Percival Alexander
- Percival Theodore
- Percival Nathaniel
- Percival Augustus
- Percival William
- Percival Frederick
- Percival Edmund
- Percival Henry
- Percival Atticus
- Percival Everett
- Percival Sebastian
- Percival Maximilian
- Percival Benedict
- Percival Dominic
- Percival Alaric
- Percival Tristan
- Percival Lysander
- Percival Gawain
- Percival Cedric
Names that go well when Percival is used as a middle name:
- Arthur Percival
- Edward Percival
- Charles Percival
- George Percival
- Oliver Percival
- Desmond Percival
- Julian Percival
- Malcolm Percival
- Hugo Percival
- Rowan Percival
- Vincent Percival
- Laurence Percival
- Gideon Percival
- Ambrose Percival
- Raphael Percival
- Lucien Percival
- Florian Percival
- Eliot Percival
- Fabian Percival
- Darius Percival
5. Numerology of Percival name
Destiny Number (Expression Number):
9
P(7) + E(5) + R(9) + C(3) + I(9) + V(4) + A(1) + L(3) = 41 = 4+1 = 5
The Destiny Number 5 suggests someone adaptable and freedom-loving who thrives on change and variety. Percival likely embraces adventure and dislikes routine, with natural talents in communication, persuasion, and versatility. Career paths that offer travel, diversity, and autonomy would be fulfilling. In relationships, Percival needs space and understanding as they balance their desire for connection with their need for independence.
Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire):
5
E(5) + I(9) + A(1) = 15 = 1+5 = 6
With a Soul Urge of 6, Percival deeply desires harmony, nurturing connections, and creating stability. Internally, they're driven by a need to care for others and create balanced environments. This manifests as a strong sense of responsibility, desire for beautiful surroundings, and natural counseling abilities. In relationships, they're loyal and giving, though they must guard against martyrdom.
Personality Number:
9
P(7) + R(9) + C(3) + V(4) + L(3) = 26 = 2+6 = 8
The Personality Number 8 reflects how others perceive Percival:
as confident, ambitious, and authoritative. People likely see them as someone who can take charge, handle responsibilities well, and achieve material success. This outer expression suggests executive abilities, practical thinking, and determination. In professional settings, this projects competence and leadership, while in personal relationships, it may create an impression of strength and reliability.
Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.
6. Percival name in pop culture
Name
Description
Percival Graves
Character in the film 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,' portrayed by Colin Farrell as the Director of Magical Security at MACUSA
Sir Percival
One of the Knights of the Round Table in Arthurian legend, appearing in numerous media adaptations including the film 'King Arthur' and BBC's 'Merlin'
Percy (Percival) Weasley
Character in the Harry Potter book and film series, the third son of the Weasley family who becomes a prefect and works at the Ministry of Magic
Percival Ulysses Cox
Character from the medical comedy-drama TV show 'Scrubs,' portrayed by John C. McGinley as a sarcastic, cynical senior attending physician
Percival McLeach
Main antagonist in Disney's animated film 'The Rescuers Down Under,' depicted as a poacher hunting for rare animals
7. Famous people named Percival
Name
Description
Percival Everett
American novelist and Distinguished Professor of English at the University of Southern California, known for his works 'Erasure' and 'The Trees'
Sir Percival Lowell
American businessman, mathematician, and astronomer who founded the Lowell Observatory and initiated the search that led to the discovery of Pluto
Percy Heath
American jazz bassist, member of the Modern Jazz Quartet and the Heath Brothers, known for his contributions to bebop and cool jazz
Percy Sledge
American R&B and soul singer known for his hit single 'When a Man Loves a Woman', inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Percy Daggs III
American actor best known for his role as Wallace Fennel in the television series 'Veronica Mars'
Percy Montgomery
South African rugby union player who holds the record for most Test caps and points scored for the South African national team
Percy Spencer
American engineer and inventor who discovered microwave cooking and developed the microwave oven while working at Raytheon
Percy Bysshe Shelley
English Romantic poet, considered one of the finest lyric and philosophical poets in the English language, author of works like 'Ozymandias'
Percy Williams
Canadian sprinter who won gold medals in both the 100 and 200 meters events at the 1928 Olympic Games in Amsterdam
Percy Harvin
Former American football player who won Super Bowl XLVIII with the Seattle Seahawks and was the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2009
8. Names similar to Percival
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