Seneca, of Latin origin, is a notable choice for a first name that has gained popularity over time. It has been worn by historical figures such as Lucius Annaeus Seneca, a Roman philosopher and dramatist who lived during the first century AD. The name Seneca is derived from the Italian word 'senza', which means 'without'. Traditionally, it was used to denote someone born into a family without a male heir. However, in modern times, Seneca has evolved as an independent name with its own unique identity and appeal. It has been favored by parents for its distinctive sound and its association with wisdom and philosophy due to its namesake's contributions to Stoicism.
The name Seneca experienced a notable peak in popularity between the late 1970s and early 1980s, with over 40 births per year occurring annually from 1977 to 1982. However, there has been a significant decline in its usage since then, with fewer than 50 births reported each year after 1983. In recent years, the name Seneca has seen a slight resurgence, with around 30 births per year recorded between 2015 and 2022. Overall, there have been a total of 1707 births named Seneca from 1956 to 2023.