Alicia is a feminine given name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman family name Ailia or the male name Aelius. It means "noble" or "nobleman," and was initially used as a surname before becoming popular as a female given name in the Middle Ages.
The name Alicia has been worn by several notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous bearers of this name is Saint Alice of Cleves, who lived in the 13th century and became known for her piety and charity towards the poor. She was eventually canonized as a saint by Pope Urban VIII.
Another notable Alicia was the Spanish poet and writer Alicia Borrachero, born in the late 19th century. Borrachero was known for her innovative and experimental poetry, which often explored themes of love, nature, and mysticism. Her work had a significant impact on modern Spanish literature and continues to be studied today.
In popular culture, the name Alicia has been used in numerous films, books, and other forms of media. One of the most famous examples is the character Alice from Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," whose full name is often given as Alicia. This character has inspired countless adaptations and retellings, including Disney's animated film "Alice in Wonderland" and Tim Burton's live-action remake.
Today, Alicia remains a popular choice for parents looking for a feminine name with Latin roots and a strong meaning. It has been consistently ranked among the top 1000 names for girls in the United States since the early 20th century, according to data from the Social Security Administration. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to its classic sound, elegant meaning, and rich history.
The name Alicia saw a significant rise in popularity over time, with the most notable increase occurring between 1959 and 1963. In just four years, the number of annual births named Alicia jumped from 1,365 in 1959 to a peak of 2,417 in 1963, marking a substantial growth of over 76%. This trend continued into the late 1960s and early 1970s, with Alicia becoming one of the most popular names during this period. However, after reaching its zenith in 1977 with 4,400 births, the popularity of the name Alicia began to decline steadily. By 2023, the annual number of births named Alicia had fallen to 699, representing a significant drop from its peak and indicating a return to more moderate levels of usage.