Monica Girl
Origin(s)
PronunciationMON-ih-kuh / ˈmɒnɪkəLatin; 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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 48 | |
TX | 45 | |
FL | 27 | |
IL | 18 | |
NC | 15 | |
OH | 15 | |
WA | 14 | |
PA | 14 | |
NY | 13 | |
WI | 13 | |
GA | 12 | |
VA | 10 | |
AZ | 10 | |
OK | 10 | |
TN | 9 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 6 |
1881 | 10 |
1883 | 5 |
1884 | 8 |
1885 | 10 |
1886 | 10 |
1887 | 13 |
1888 | 13 |
1889 | 14 |
1890 | 17 |
1891 | 25 |
1892 | 27 |
1893 | 25 |
1894 | 22 |
1895 | 20 |
1896 | 36 |
1897 | 34 |
1898 | 41 |
1899 | 30 |
1900 | 39 |
1901 | 44 |
1902 | 33 |
1903 | 36 |
1904 | 54 |
1905 | 53 |
1906 | 52 |
1907 | 61 |
1908 | 62 |
1909 | 71 |
1910 | 79 |
1911 | 83 |
1912 | 130 |
1913 | 164 |
1914 | 156 |
1915 | 196 |
1916 | 278 |
1917 | 252 |
1918 | 223 |
1919 | 178 |
1920 | 215 |
1921 | 247 |
1922 | 206 |
1923 | 199 |
1924 | 223 |
1925 | 198 |
1926 | 190 |
1927 | 189 |
1928 | 218 |
1929 | 182 |
1930 | 168 |
1931 | 192 |
1932 | 215 |
1933 | 213 |
1934 | 259 |
1935 | 332 |
1936 | 273 |
1937 | 292 |
1938 | 269 |
1939 | 256 |
1940 | 285 |
1941 | 261 |
1942 | 325 |
1943 | 299 |
1944 | 342 |
1945 | 400 |
1946 | 457 |
1947 | 615 |
1948 | 847 |
1949 | 826 |
1950 | 1,058 |
1951 | 1,298 |
1952 | 1,464 |
1953 | 1,600 |
1954 | 1,824 |
1955 | 1,817 |
1956 | 2,162 |
1957 | 2,491 |
1958 | 2,415 |
1959 | 2,593 |
1960 | 3,088 |
1961 | 3,392 |
1962 | 4,007 |
1963 | 3,996 |
1964 | 4,655 |
1965 | 5,113 |
1966 | 4,722 |
1967 | 4,966 |
1968 | 5,219 |
1969 | 6,034 |
1970 | 6,188 |
1971 | 6,427 |
1972 | 6,133 |
1973 | 6,379 |
1974 | 6,281 |
1975 | 5,476 |
1976 | 5,979 |
1977 | 6,366 |
1978 | 5,867 |
1979 | 6,585 |
1980 | 6,035 |
1981 | 5,782 |
1982 | 5,734 |
1983 | 5,404 |
1984 | 5,132 |
1985 | 4,989 |
1986 | 5,014 |
1987 | 4,809 |
1988 | 4,463 |
1989 | 4,502 |
1990 | 4,453 |
1991 | 4,156 |
1992 | 4,590 |
1993 | 3,901 |
1994 | 3,912 |
1995 | 3,969 |
1996 | 4,326 |
1997 | 4,223 |
1998 | 3,229 |
1999 | 2,134 |
2000 | 1,992 |
2001 | 1,796 |
2002 | 1,778 |
2003 | 1,613 |
2004 | 1,512 |
2005 | 1,409 |
2006 | 1,363 |
2007 | 1,192 |
2008 | 1,064 |
2009 | 972 |
2010 | 887 |
2011 | 779 |
2012 | 724 |
2013 | 597 |
2014 | 577 |
2015 | 557 |
2016 | 522 |
2017 | 472 |
2018 | 498 |
2019 | 459 |
2020 | 404 |
2021 | 415 |
2022 | 389 |
2023 | 386 |
2024 | 388 |