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Lucia Girl

Popularity: #98 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationLOO-sha / ˈluːʃə

Latin; Italian

Meaning

Latin: light; Italian: light

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Lucia originates from the Latin word "lux," meaning "light." Its earliest forms can be traced back to the Roman name "Lucius," which was derived from the same root. The name Lucia itself emerged in the early Christian era, particularly in the context of the Latin-speaking regions of the Roman Empire. It entered the English language through the Old French form "Lucie" during the medieval period, when many Latin names were adapted into vernacular languages as Christianity spread throughout Europe.

Historically, Lucia has been associated with several notable figures, most prominently Saint Lucia of Syracuse, a Christian martyr who is believed to have died around the year 304 CE. Her feast day, celebrated on December 13, became a significant occasion in various Christian traditions, particularly in the Scandinavian countries, where it is marked by festivals of light during the darkest days of winter. The name gained further prominence through the medieval hagiographies that recount her life and martyrdom, contributing to its enduring legacy in Christian culture.

Culturally, Lucia symbolizes light and purity, reflecting the etymological roots of the name. In many traditions, she is depicted with a crown of candles, representing the light of faith overcoming darkness. This imagery has resonated through centuries, making Lucia a popular name in various cultures, particularly in Italy and Scandinavia. The name has various diminutive forms, such as Lucy, which also carries similar connotations of light. The historical and cultural significance of Lucia has ensured its continued use and reverence in different societies, often associated with themes of hope and enlightenment.

Trend Summary

Lucia has seen a steady increase in popularity in the United States over the past few decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Lucie
  • Luzia
  • Lucia

International Variants

  • Lucía (Spanish)
  • Lucie (French)
  • Lucia (Portuguese)
  • Luzia (German)

Famous people named Lucia

Lucia di Lammermoor is an opera character best known for the opera by Gaetano Donizetti.

Lucia Popp was a soprano best known for her performances in operas and concert works.

Lucia Hawley is a writer best known for her contributions to various literary magazines and anthologies.

Lucia Rijker is a former professional boxer and kickboxer best known for her achievements in women's boxing and her role in the film Million Dollar Baby.

Lucia Mann is a photographer best known for her work in fashion and editorial photography.

Fictional characters named Lucia

Lucia is a fictional character from the video game series Fire Emblem. She is a skilled swordswoman and a key ally in her quest to protect her kingdom.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Lucia was first seen in the United States in 1880. Lucia has ranked as high as #226 nationally, which occurred in 2024, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Lucia has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Lucia (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 434
17%
TX 399
16%
FL 221
9%
NY 175
7%
IL 97
4%
NJ 86
3%
PA 80
3%
WA 76
3%
AZ 66
3%
MA 65
3%
CO 61
2%
OH 61
2%
NC 60
2%
GA 54
2%
VA 53
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188015
188116
188220
188324
188422
188523
188633
188715
188834
188938
189031
189135
189237
189336
189432
189525
189634
189736
189849
189932
190042
190141
190241
190325
190446
190542
190658
190756
190844
190969
191064
191165
191288
1913110
1914125
1915140
1916167
1917153
1918191
1919157
1920147
1921182
1922190
1923171
1924182
1925154
1926185
1927186
1928192
1929171
1930180
1931162
1932185
1933167
1934161
1935154
1936174
1937156
1938162
1939142
1940158
1941168
1942182
1943182
1944167
1945168
1946198
1947203
1948221
1949223
1950208
1951253
1952258
1953259
1954267
1955289
1956219
1957246
1958233
1959269
1960260
1961286
1962227
1963252
1964293
1965251
1966266
1967248
1968253
1969211
1970252
1971229
1972228
1973219
1974198
1975257
1976278
1977267
1978269
1979276
1980316
1981322
1982318
1983302
1984335
1985369
1986340
1987330
1988313
1989396
1990400
1991397
1992401
1993430
1994376
1995383
1996400
1997378
1998370
1999433
2000552
2001550
2002524
2003626
2004741
2005853
2006976
20071,090
20081,099
20091,084
20101,239
20111,329
20121,304
20131,327
20141,435
20151,452
20161,523
20171,661
20181,612
20191,819
20201,752
20212,025
20222,222
20232,442
20242,658