Felicitas Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: feh-LIS-i-tas /fɛˈlɪsɪtəs/
Origin: Latin
Meaning: happiness; good fortune
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Felicitas has its roots in Latin, derived from the word "felix," which means "happy" or "fortunate." This term was used in various forms throughout ancient Roman culture, often associated with prosperity and good fortune. The name Felicitas itself emerged in the Roman Empire, where it was used both as a personal name and as a personification of happiness and good fortune, often depicted in art and literature.
The transition of the name into English occurred through the influence of Latin on early medieval languages, particularly during the Christianization of Europe, when many Latin names were adopted into vernacular forms. Historically, Felicitas is associated with several early Christian martyrs, most notably Saint Felicitas of Rome, who was martyred in the 2nd century.
Her story is recounted in various hagiographies, and she is often celebrated for her steadfast faith and resilience in the face of persecution. The veneration of saints like Felicitas contributed to the name's endurance through the Middle Ages, particularly in Christian communities where the attributes of happiness and virtue were highly esteemed.
Additionally, the name appears in various historical texts and ecclesiastical writings, reinforcing its significance in religious contexts. Culturally, Felicitas symbolizes joy and prosperity, making it a name that resonates with positive attributes.
In the context of Roman culture, it was often linked to the goddess of good fortune, further embedding the name within a framework of auspiciousness. The name has also inspired various diminutive forms and variations across different languages, such as Felicity in English and Felicité in French, which carry similar meanings of happiness and good fortune.
The enduring legacy of Felicitas reflects its deep historical roots and the cultural values associated with joy and prosperity.
Famous people named Felicitas
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Felicitas was first seen in the United States in 1889. Felicitas has ranked as high as #827 nationally, which occurred in 1928, and has been most popular in California, Texas, and Arizona. In the past 5 years the name Felicitas has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Felicitas (2005)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1889 | 5 |
| 1896 | 5 |
| 1898 | 6 |
| 1899 | 6 |
| 1900 | 6 |
| 1901 | 6 |
| 1902 | 7 |
| 1904 | 9 |
| 1906 | 8 |
| 1907 | 8 |
| 1909 | 5 |
| 1910 | 13 |
| 1911 | 11 |
| 1912 | 19 |
| 1913 | 16 |
| 1914 | 18 |
| 1915 | 25 |
| 1916 | 27 |
| 1917 | 21 |
| 1918 | 22 |
| 1919 | 28 |
| 1920 | 30 |
| 1921 | 40 |
| 1922 | 31 |
| 1923 | 38 |
| 1924 | 48 |
| 1925 | 40 |
| 1926 | 47 |
| 1927 | 43 |
| 1928 | 67 |
| 1929 | 47 |
| 1930 | 36 |
| 1931 | 38 |
| 1932 | 38 |
| 1933 | 16 |
| 1934 | 32 |
| 1935 | 28 |
| 1936 | 35 |
| 1937 | 16 |
| 1938 | 19 |
| 1939 | 13 |
| 1940 | 23 |
| 1941 | 22 |
| 1942 | 20 |
| 1943 | 21 |
| 1944 | 19 |
| 1945 | 19 |
| 1946 | 17 |
| 1947 | 15 |
| 1948 | 25 |
| 1949 | 27 |
| 1950 | 15 |
| 1951 | 12 |
| 1952 | 20 |
| 1953 | 16 |
| 1954 | 26 |
| 1955 | 17 |
| 1956 | 8 |
| 1957 | 13 |
| 1958 | 15 |
| 1959 | 9 |
| 1960 | 15 |
| 1961 | 23 |
| 1962 | 12 |
| 1963 | 17 |
| 1964 | 11 |
| 1965 | 10 |
| 1966 | 13 |
| 1967 | 11 |
| 1968 | 20 |
| 1969 | 11 |
| 1970 | 11 |
| 1971 | 12 |
| 1972 | 15 |
| 1973 | 9 |
| 1974 | 14 |
| 1975 | 10 |
| 1976 | 10 |
| 1977 | 12 |
| 1978 | 17 |
| 1979 | 21 |
| 1980 | 7 |
| 1981 | 17 |
| 1982 | 24 |
| 1983 | 15 |
| 1984 | 7 |
| 1985 | 14 |
| 1986 | 9 |
| 1987 | 6 |
| 1988 | 15 |
| 1989 | 16 |
| 1990 | 11 |
| 1991 | 12 |
| 1992 | 7 |
| 1993 | 5 |
| 1994 | 5 |
| 1995 | 16 |
| 1996 | 17 |
| 1997 | 13 |
| 1998 | 13 |
| 1999 | 7 |
| 2000 | 14 |
| 2001 | 11 |
| 2002 | 9 |
| 2003 | 8 |
| 2004 | 8 |
| 2005 | 8 |
| 2006 | 10 |
| 2007 | 8 |
| 2008 | 5 |
| 2009 | 6 |
| 2010 | 6 |
| 2011 | 6 |
| 2012 | 6 |
| 2015 | 6 |
| 2016 | 6 |
| 2018 | 5 |
| 2019 | 6 |
| 2021 | 5 |
| 2022 | 8 |
| 2024 | 7 |