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Monica Girl

Popularity: #582 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationMON-ih-kuh / ˈmɒnɪkə

Latin; Greek

Meaning

Latin: advisor; Greek: to be alone

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Monica has its roots in the Latin name "Monica," which is believed to derive from the North African Berber word "munika," meaning "advisor" or "counselor." The name was popularized in the Christian tradition through Saint Monica, the mother of Saint Augustine of Hippo, who lived in the 4th century. Her life and piety were documented by Augustine in his autobiographical work, "Confessions," which contributed to the name's enduring presence in Christian communities. The Latin form "Monica" was adopted into various languages, including Old French, before making its way into English by the late Middle Ages.

Saint Monica's significance in Christian history is marked by her unwavering faith and dedication to her son, Augustine, who initially led a wayward life before converting to Christianity. Her feast day is celebrated on May 4, and she is often invoked by those seeking the conversion of loved ones. The name Monica thus carries connotations of maternal devotion and spiritual perseverance, resonating deeply within Christian traditions.

Throughout the centuries, the name has been associated with various notable figures, including several saints and scholars. In the medieval period, it became more widely used in Europe, particularly among Christians who admired Saint Monica's virtues. The name's cultural resonance is further enhanced by its appearances in literature and art, where it symbolizes fidelity and the strength of maternal love. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Moni" or "Monnie" have emerged in various cultures, reflecting the name's adaptability while retaining its original essence.

Trend Summary

Monica has experienced fluctuating popularity in the United States, peaking in the 1970s and 1980s.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Monika
  • Mónica

International Variants

  • Mónica (Spanish)
  • Monique (French)
  • Monika (German)
  • Monika (Polish)

Famous people named Monica

Monica Bellucci is an actress and model best known for Malèna, The Matrix Reloaded, and Spectre.

Monica Lewinsky is a public speaker and activist best known for her involvement in the Clinton scandal.

Monica Seles is a former professional tennis player best known for winning nine Grand Slam singles titles.

Monica Potter is an actress best known for Parenthood, Along Came a Spider, and Saw.

Fictional characters named Monica

Monica Geller is a fictional character from the TV show Friends. She is a chef known for her obsessive cleanliness and competitive nature.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Monica was first seen in the United States in 1880. Monica has ranked as high as #90 nationally, which occurred in 1979, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Monica has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Monica (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 48
14%
TX 45
13%
FL 27
8%
IL 18
5%
NC 15
4%
OH 15
4%
WA 14
4%
PA 14
4%
NY 13
4%
WI 13
4%
GA 12
4%
VA 10
3%
AZ 10
3%
OK 10
3%
TN 9
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18806
188110
18835
18848
188510
188610
188713
188813
188914
189017
189125
189227
189325
189422
189520
189636
189734
189841
189930
190039
190144
190233
190336
190454
190553
190652
190761
190862
190971
191079
191183
1912130
1913164
1914156
1915196
1916278
1917252
1918223
1919178
1920215
1921247
1922206
1923199
1924223
1925198
1926190
1927189
1928218
1929182
1930168
1931192
1932215
1933213
1934259
1935332
1936273
1937292
1938269
1939256
1940285
1941261
1942325
1943299
1944342
1945400
1946457
1947615
1948847
1949826
19501,058
19511,298
19521,464
19531,600
19541,824
19551,817
19562,162
19572,491
19582,415
19592,593
19603,088
19613,392
19624,007
19633,996
19644,655
19655,113
19664,722
19674,966
19685,219
19696,034
19706,188
19716,427
19726,133
19736,379
19746,281
19755,476
19765,979
19776,366
19785,867
19796,585
19806,035
19815,782
19825,734
19835,404
19845,132
19854,989
19865,014
19874,809
19884,463
19894,502
19904,453
19914,156
19924,590
19933,901
19943,912
19953,969
19964,326
19974,223
19983,229
19992,134
20001,992
20011,796
20021,778
20031,613
20041,512
20051,409
20061,363
20071,192
20081,064
2009972
2010887
2011779
2012724
2013597
2014577
2015557
2016522
2017472
2018498
2019459
2020404
2021415
2022389
2023386
2024388