Alicja is a name of Polish origin, derived from the Germanic element 'Adalheidis', which means 'noble'. It was introduced to Poland through the adoption of German culture and has since become a popular choice for girls in Poland and other Slavic countries. The name gained prominence after it was used by Queen Alicja, wife of the last Piast king in Poland, Władysław II the Exile. In its Latin form, Adalheidis, it is associated with St. Adelaide of Metz, a 10th-century queen of Italy. However, despite its historical ties to royalty and nobility, today Alicja is seen as a modern and charming name, often shortened to Alicka or Aleka.
The name Alicja has seen a significant increase in popularity since the late 1990s, with a notable peak in the early 2000s and again around 2010-2012.