Paddy

Paddy is an Irish pet form of Patrick, which derives from the Latin name Patricius, meaning nobleman or member of the patrician class. The name was borne most famously by Saint Patrick, the fifth-century Romano-British missionary who became the patron saint of Ireland, cementing the name's strong association with Irish identity. Paddy became so thoroughly identified with Ireland and Irishness that it has historically been used as a colloquial term for an Irish person. Closely related forms include Pat, Patsy, and the original Patrick, along with the feminine cognate Patricia.