Angelique is a unique and captivating female given name of French origin. It is derived from the word 'ange,' which means 'angel' in English. Thus, Angelique literally translates to 'like an angel.' This name has been popular throughout history, particularly during the Renaissance period, when it was often used by authors as a pseudonym.
The name Angelique first gained significant popularity through the character Angelica in Jean-Baptiste Poquelin's (better known as Molière) play "Les Femmes Savantes," which premiered in 1672. In this comedy of manners, Angelica is portrayed as a young woman who feigns intellectual interests to attract suitors.
The name Angelique also appears in several literary works by French authors. One notable example is the novel "Angélique" by Anne Golon, published in 1958. The story follows the adventures of its protagonist, Angélique, from her humble beginnings as a maid to her rise as a noblewoman.
Over time, Angelique has become associated with elegance, grace, and charm, reflecting the heavenly connotations of its origin. It is still used today, though not as commonly as some other names of French origin, such as Marie or Sophie. Nevertheless, it remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking an elegant name for their daughter.
Angelicque is a rare and unique name with only 11 babies given this name annually in 1970.