Name Meaning & Origin
🔊 PUR-suh-vul /pərˈsɪvəl/
"Through percival, pierce the valley"
In ancient Latin, Percival means 'through percival, pierce the valley'. It is derived from the elements per (through) and cal (valley). This name has been associated with the legendary knight Sir Percival, one of King Arthur's most renowned knights, known for his purity and bravery.
Percival, also spelled Perceval, is a masculine given name derived from the Celtic name Peredur and likely influenced by the Old French percer, meaning pierce and val, meaning valley. The name was likely also influenced by the name Percy. Sir Percival was one of the Knights of the Round Table in Arthurian romance.…
Percival is a name of French origin, derived from the Old French name Perceval, meaning 'piercing vision' or 'bright-eyed'. In Christian tradition, Percival is associated with the concept of chivalry …
Emotional Traits
Hidden Personality
Lucky Colors
Numerology: Expressive, creative, and enthusiastic individuals
Life Path 5 — Freedom & Adventure: Versatile, curious, and love for exploration.
Cultural Impact
The name Percival carries a rich cultural legacy with its association with King Arthur's knights of the round table. Its significance can be seen through the numerous legends and stories that have been passed down through generations, continuing to inspire and captivate audiences. The love tale of Sir Percival and Blanchefleur, a scribe and a lady of King Arthur's court, remains a popular subject in various literary works, reflecting the enduring appeal of chivalry and romantic love.
Spiritual Significance
The name Percival holds spiritual significance with its focus on the journey to pierce through the valleys of life, symbolizing overcoming obstacles, seeking knowledge, and purifying the soul. This reflects the biblical principles of faith, courage, and determination in following one's spiritual path. In the legend of Percival and the Holy Grail, he is known for his unwavering dedication to the quest for the sacred vessel, embodying the Christian virtues of devotion and selflessness.
Based on 1,353 US Social Security records
Root element "Percival" emerges in Latin tradition, carrying the core meaning "Through percival, pierce the valley".
Used in English literary and religious texts, spreading through cultural exchange.
Carried across regions through trade, religion, and migration. Multiple spelling variants develop.
Standardized in its current form, established across English-speaking and Muslim communities.
~1,353 people named Percival in the US. Peaked in 2024 with 93 recorded uses.
According to the Arthurian legend, Sir Percival was a knight of King Arthur's Round Table. He was noted for his purity and his quest for the Holy Grail. His story is first mentioned in the 'Vulgate Cycle' of Arthurian legends, likely written between the 12th and 13th centuries.
Saint Percival, also known as Percival of Tours, was a 5th-century French Christian saint. According to his hagiography, he was a soldier who had a vision of the Virgin Mary, instructing him to build a church in her honor. After building the church, Percival was reported to have performed many miracles and was eventually martyred.
Modern Usage
The name Percival is most commonly associated with the Arthurian legend as a knight of the Round Table. In literature, Percival is a popular character in modern re-tellings of the Arthurian legends. In tabletop games, he is often featured as a playable character in various RPG systems. In video games, Percival is a character in games such as 'King Arthur: Knight's Tale' and 'Camelot: A New Dawn', which explore the Arthurian legend in a modern context.
Percival means "Through percival, pierce the valley" and is a popular Christian name with deep spiritual significance.
Yes, Percival is a beautiful Christian name that carries positive meaning and is widely used in Christian communities around the world.
Percival has Latin origins and is rooted in Christian tradition and culture.
The Life Path number for Percival is 5, associated with Freedom & Adventure. Soul Urge: 6. Personality: 8.
Percival is Predominantly Male. Based on US data, 100% male and 0% female.
Approximately 1,353 people in the United States are named Percival. The name peaked in 2024 with 93 recorded uses.
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