Originating from Latin, Octavia is a timeless feminine given name that has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. Derived from the Latin word 'octavus', meaning 'eighth', it was traditionally given to girls born in the eighth month of the year, but its usage has since expanded beyond this origin. The name gained significant prominence during the Roman Empire, with Octavia Minor being the sister of Augustus Caesar and mother of Emperor Claudius. Today, Octavia continues to be an elegant and distinctive choice for parents seeking a classic yet uncommon name for their daughter.
The name Octavia experienced a notable rise and fall in popularity between 1920 and 1994, with a significant spike occurring around the late 70s to mid-80s. The peak years for the name were 1977, 1978, and 1979, during which there were consistently high numbers of births, reaching an apex of 12 in 1979. However, by 1994, the popularity of the name had declined significantly.