Antonia is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "Antonius," which means "priceless" or "highly praiseworthy." The name Antonius itself comes from the Latin family name "Antonius," believed to have been derived from the Latin word "antos," meaning "in place of," and the suffix "-nius," indicating "belonging to."
The name Antonia first became popular during the Roman Empire, where it was used for both boys and girls. However, over time, it has become more commonly associated with females. Some famous individuals throughout history who have borne the name Antonia include:
* Antonia Minor (39 BC–37 AD), mother of Emperor Claudius and grandmother of Emperor Nero;
* Antonia Major (40 BC – after 51 AD), daughter of Mark Antony and Octavia the Younger, sister of Emperor Claudius, and aunt of Emperor Nero.
Today, Antonia remains a popular choice for parents seeking a name with a rich history and strong meaning. It is often associated with qualities such as value, worthiness, and admiration, reflecting its original Latin roots. Despite its vintage feel, Antonia continues to be chosen by modern families looking for a timeless yet distinctive name for their daughters.
"The name Antonia has seen a significant peak in popularity between 1957 and 1974, with the highest number of births occurring in 1974 (108). However, there's been a steady decline since then, with only 5 births recorded in 2013."