Brigitta Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: bri-GIT-ah //brɪˈɡɪtə//
Origin: German; Scandinavian
Meaning: Exalted one; strength
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Brigitta has its roots in the Old Irish name Brighid, which is derived from the Proto-Celtic *Brigantia, meaning 'the exalted one' or 'the high one.' This name is associated with the goddess Brigid, a significant figure in Celtic mythology, revered for her associations with fertility, healing, poetry, and the forge. The name was later adapted into Latin as Brigida and subsequently into various forms in different languages, including the Scandinavian Brigitta and the German Brigitte, before entering the English lexicon as Brigitta.
Historically, the name Brigitta gained prominence through Saint Brigid of Kildare, who lived in the 5th century. She is one of Ireland's patron saints and is celebrated for her piety and miraculous deeds.
Her life and legacy were recorded in various hagiographies, contributing to the name's spread across Christian Europe. The name was further popularized by the medieval cult of Saint Brigid, with her feast day celebrated on February 1st, coinciding with the ancient festival of Imbolc, marking the beginning of spring.
Culturally, Brigitta has been associated with strength, wisdom, and nurturing qualities, reflecting the attributes of the goddess Brigid. The name has endured through centuries, often linked to figures of resilience and leadership in various cultures.
Its variants, such as Brigitte and Brigida, have also been embraced in different linguistic contexts, each carrying the historical weight of the original name. Overall, Brigitta embodies a rich tapestry of linguistic evolution and cultural significance, rooted deeply in both pagan and Christian traditions.
Famous people named Brigitta
Brigitta Schmidt is a swimmer best known for competing in the Olympics and World Championships.
Brigitta Zofia is a singer best known for her performances in classical music and opera.
Fictional characters named Brigitta
Brigitta von Trapp is a fictional character from the musical and film The Sound of Music. She is one of the seven children of the von Trapp family, known for her intelligence and curiosity.
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Brigitta was first seen in the United States in 1944.
Brigitta has ranked as high as #1119 nationally, which occurred in 1962, and has been most popular in California, and Pennsylvania.
In the past 5 years the name Brigitta has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Brigitta (1995)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 6 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1944 | 5 |
| 1955 | 6 |
| 1957 | 10 |
| 1958 | 5 |
| 1959 | 11 |
| 1960 | 10 |
| 1961 | 6 |
| 1962 | 17 |
| 1963 | 12 |
| 1964 | 14 |
| 1965 | 8 |
| 1966 | 13 |
| 1967 | 16 |
| 1968 | 12 |
| 1969 | 15 |
| 1970 | 8 |
| 1971 | 9 |
| 1972 | 9 |
| 1973 | 9 |
| 1974 | 8 |
| 1975 | 8 |
| 1976 | 13 |
| 1977 | 5 |
| 1978 | 8 |
| 1979 | 7 |
| 1980 | 8 |
| 1981 | 8 |
| 1982 | 11 |
| 1983 | 8 |
| 1984 | 5 |
| 1986 | 7 |
| 1987 | 6 |
| 1988 | 7 |
| 1989 | 10 |
| 1990 | 7 |
| 1991 | 12 |
| 1992 | 12 |
| 1993 | 13 |
| 1994 | 12 |
| 1995 | 14 |
| 1996 | 10 |
| 1997 | 11 |
| 1999 | 8 |
| 2001 | 11 |
| 2002 | 7 |
| 2003 | 9 |
| 2004 | 5 |
| 2005 | 9 |
| 2007 | 7 |
| 2008 | 9 |
| 2009 | 8 |
| 2010 | 5 |
| 2011 | 5 |
| 2012 | 7 |
| 2013 | 10 |
| 2015 | 7 |
| 2016 | 9 |
| 2017 | 6 |
| 2019 | 6 |
| 2020 | 5 |
| 2023 | 6 |