The name Priscilla has its origins in the Latin language. It is a feminine form of the Roman name Priscus, which means "ancient" or "venerable." The name first appeared during the Roman Empire, around the first century AD.

Priscilla was a fairly common name among Roman women, particularly those from aristocratic families. One of the earliest known bearers of the name was Priscilla, the wife of the Roman general Abienus Rufus, who lived in the 1st century AD.

In the New Testament, Priscilla is mentioned as a companion of the apostle Paul. She and her husband Aquila were tentmakers who traveled with Paul and helped to spread Christianity in various parts of the Roman Empire.

During the Middle Ages, the name Priscilla was relatively rare, but it continued to be used by some Christian families, particularly in Italy and other parts of Europe influenced by Roman culture.

One of the most notable historical figures named Priscilla was Priscilla Mullins, a passenger on the Mayflower and one of the founders of the Plymouth Colony in 1620. She was born around 1604 in England and died in 1680 in Massachusetts.

Another famous Priscilla was Priscilla Alden, the wife of John Alden, who was also a passenger on the Mayflower. She was born around 1602 in England and died in 1685 in Massachusetts.

In the 17th century, the name Priscilla gained popularity among the Puritans in England and later in the American colonies. One notable bearer of the name was Priscilla Carpenter, a Puritan woman who was accused of witchcraft during the Salem Witch Trials in 1692. She was born around 1624 and died in 1698.

Priscilla Wakefield, an English Quaker and author of children's literature, was born in 1751 and died in 1832. Her works, such as "An Introduction to Botany" and "Mental Improvement," were widely read and influential.

In the 19th century, Priscilla was a popular name among American families, particularly in New England. One famous Priscilla from this period was Priscilla Moline, an American educator and author who was born in 1819 and died in 1893.