Princeton

Prince's town — a boy name of English origin

GenderBoy
OriginEnglish
MeaningPrince's town
PronunciationPRIN-stun

Popularity of Princeton in the United States

#653Rank in 2025
422Births in 2025
#402 in 2017Peak Popularity
↓ Declining10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Princeton

Princeton combines the word "prince" with the common English place-name suffix "-ton," meaning "town" or "settlement," and is most famously associated with the town of Princeton, New Jersey, and its prestigious Ivy League university, founded in 1746. As a given name, Princeton emerged in the late 20th century as part of a broader trend of using distinguished institutional and place names as first names. The name gained visibility through the performer Princeton Perez, a member of the boy band Mindless Behavior, whose stage name was inspired by the university. Princeton carries an aspirational, achievement-oriented quality that appeals to parents drawn to grand, prestigious-sounding names.

Variations & Nicknames

Variations

PrincestonPrinstonPrincetyn

Nicknames

PrincePrincey

Famous People Named Princeton

  • Princeton Perez — American singer and dancer, member of Mindless Behavior
  • Princeton Marcellis — American Christian music artist

Sibling Name Ideas for Princeton

Looking for names that pair well with Princeton? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Princeton mean?

Princeton is a boy name of English origin meaning "Prince's town." Princeton combines the word "prince" with the common English place-name suffix "-ton," meaning "town" or "settlement," and is most famously associated with the town of Princeton, New Jersey, and its prestigious Ivy League university, founded in 1746. As a given name, Princeton emerged in the late 20th century as part of a broader trend of using distinguished institutional and place names as first names.

How do you pronounce Princeton?

Princeton is pronounced PRIN-stun. Common variations include Princeston, Prinston, Princetyn.

Is Princeton a boy name?

Yes, Princeton is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Prince, Princey.

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