Leticia is a feminine given name of Spanish and Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "laetitia," which means happiness or joy. The name Leticia has been used for centuries, with its popularity varying over time and across different cultures.
In Spain, Leticia was a popular choice for baby girls during the 19th century, particularly among families of nobility. It is still a well-known name in Spanish-speaking countries today. In other parts of Europe, such as France and Italy, Letizia has been used occasionally but not with the same frequency as in Spain.
One notable figure named Leticia is Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano, who married King Felipe VI of Spain in 2004. As a result, she became known as Queen Letizia of Spain. This royal connection may have contributed to an increase in the popularity of the name Leticia among parents in recent years.
Overall, Leticia is a beautiful and meaningful name with a rich history. Its association with happiness and joy makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a name that carries positive connotations. Although not as widely used as some other feminine names, Leticia remains a popular option across various cultures and generations.
Statistics show that the name Letica has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1962 and 1996, there were a total of 193 babies named Letica born annually, with the highest number being 12 births recorded in 1982.
The name's popularity fluctuated throughout these decades:
* The 1960s saw an average of about 7 births per year.
* In the 1970s, there was an increase to approximately 9 births annually, with a peak of 10 births in both 1970 and 1973.
* The 1980s showed a slight dip initially but then rose to its highest point at 12 births in 1982. After that, it fell back down to around 6-9 births per year until the end of the decade.
In the 1990s, Letica's popularity started to decline again:
* There were only 5 births each in both 1989 and 1990.
* The number then rose briefly to 9 births in 1991 before dropping back down to 5 births in 1996.
Overall, while Letica was never a particularly common name, it did experience periods of greater popularity, particularly between the late 1960s and mid-1980s.