Veronique is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It means "true image" or "victory-bringer," derived from the Latin word "verus," which translates to "true," and "nica," which signifies "victory." The name Veronique has a long history, with its roots dating back to ancient Roman times.
In the past, the name was often associated with Saint Veronica, who is believed to have wiped Jesus' face with her veil as he carried his cross. Legend has it that the image of Christ's face miraculously appeared on the veil, giving rise to the name Veronique and its meaning. However, there is no historical evidence to support this story.
The name Veronique gained popularity in France during the Middle Ages, where it was often used as a given name for girls. Over time, it spread throughout Europe, becoming more widely known and utilized in various countries. Today, Veronique remains a popular choice for parents looking for a unique yet timeless name for their daughters.
In literature, notable characters named Veronique include the protagonist of "Veronique," a novel by Paul Gadenne, and the heroine of "Vernon God Little," a novel by DBC Pierre. These fictional characters contribute to the enduring appeal and cultural significance of the name Veronique.
The name Veronica has been consistently used in the United States since the 1950s, with a significant increase in popularity during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
In the decade spanning from 1966 to 1975, there were over 3,200 babies named Veronica each year on average. The name reached its peak popularity in 1972 with a total of 65 births that year.
After this period, the frequency of the name decreased steadily but remained relatively consistent throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, with around 30 births per year on average. Since then, the name has become less common, with fewer than 20 Veronica births occurring annually in recent years.
Overall, between 1952 and 2022, there have been a total of 1448 babies named Veronica born in the United States.