Octavia is a feminine given name of Latin origin that means "eighth". It is derived from the Latin word "octavus", which means "eighth". The name was popular among Roman families, particularly those belonging to the Julian-Claudian dynasty, which included several prominent figures such as Octavia Minor, the sister of Augustus Caesar. Throughout history, the name has been associated with intelligence, elegance, and sophistication, making it a timeless choice for parents seeking a unique yet classic name for their daughter.
The name Octavia experienced significant fluctuations over the past century and a half, with a notable rise in popularity since around the year 2000. Between 1880 and 1974, the number of annual births named Octavia remained relatively low, ranging from 27 to 194. However, starting in 1975, there was a substantial increase, reaching 266 births in 1984 and peaking at 1236 births in 2021. This trend suggests that the name Octavia has gained significant popularity in recent decades, although it is still less common than many other names based on its current frequency.