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Cecile Girl

Popularity: #929 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

Pronunciationseh-SEEL / /səˈsiːl/

Latin; French

Meaning

Latin: blind; French: sixth

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Cecile is derived from the Latin name Caecilia, which is the feminine form of Caecilius, meaning 'blind' or 'dim-sighted.' The root of the name can be traced back to the Latin word 'caecus,' which carries the same meaning. The name entered the English language through Old French as Cecile, particularly during the medieval period when many Latin names were adapted into vernacular forms. This transition reflects the broader influence of Latin on the development of European languages following the fall of the Roman Empire.

Historically, the name Cecile is closely associated with Saint Cecilia, a Christian martyr who is believed to have lived in the 2nd or 3rd century. She is the patron saint of musicians and is often depicted with musical instruments, symbolizing her connection to music and the arts. The veneration of Saint Cecilia grew throughout the Middle Ages, particularly in the context of the Catholic Church, and her feast day is celebrated on November 22. The name gained further prominence through various artistic representations, including the famous "Cecilia" by the Italian painter Raphael in the 16th century, which helped solidify its cultural significance.

Cecile has also been embraced in various literary works and musical compositions, reinforcing its association with creativity and inspiration. The name's enduring appeal can be attributed to its melodic sound and the positive connotations linked to its historical and religious associations. In addition to its primary form, diminutive variations such as Cecily or Cécile in French contexts have emerged, reflecting the name's adaptability across cultures. Overall, Cecile embodies a rich tapestry of linguistic, historical, and cultural significance that has contributed to its lasting presence in various traditions.

Trend Summary

Cecile has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a notable presence in the early to mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Cecilia
  • Cecy
  • Cecilie

International Variants

  • Cécile (French)
  • Cecilia (Italian)
  • Cecilie (Danish)
  • Cecília (Hungarian)

Famous people named Cecile

Cecile Richards is an activist and former president of Planned Parenthood, best known for her work in women's health advocacy and reproductive rights.

Cecile de France is an actress best known for Hereafter, High Tension, and The Spanish Apartment.

Cecile McLorin Salvant is a jazz singer and songwriter best known for her Grammy Award-winning albums and performances at jazz festivals.

Fictional characters named Cecile

Cecile is a fictional character from the novel and film Dangerous Liaisons. She is a naive young woman who becomes a pawn in a manipulative game of seduction and betrayal.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Cecile was first seen in the United States in 1880. Cecile has ranked as high as #480 nationally, which occurred in 1918, and has been most popular in Massachusetts, New York, Louisiana, Maine, and California. In the past 5 years the name Cecile has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Cecile (2020)

StateBirthsShare
LA 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188017
188124
188227
188335
188429
188532
188643
188734
188881
188967
189071
189179
189292
189386
1894102
1895109
1896144
1897121
1898172
1899147
1900175
1901133
1902181
1903159
1904173
1905161
1906163
1907156
1908155
1909186
1910187
1911184
1912275
1913282
1914351
1915468
1916417
1917476
1918495
1919478
1920482
1921475
1922422
1923474
1924422
1925409
1926378
1927371
1928328
1929306
1930295
1931260
1932235
1933206
1934210
1935270
1936359
1937357
1938313
1939320
1940310
1941243
1942282
1943280
1944214
1945198
1946225
1947234
1948214
1949196
1950196
1951184
1952203
1953195
1954163
1955159
1956166
1957186
1958185
1959173
1960140
1961135
1962124
1963119
196477
196577
196653
196761
196853
196956
197051
197136
197237
197335
197430
197539
197626
197729
197822
197930
198052
198145
198244
198335
198449
198536
198620
198735
198832
198954
199043
199137
199231
199330
199434
199526
199628
199720
199825
199921
200020
200129
200222
200331
200428
200523
200630
200730
200823
200926
201021
201125
201229
201322
201419
201527
201625
201724
201824
201921
202025
202125
202220
202316
202421