Felicia

Meaning & origin

Felicia is a name with classical roots, derived from the Latin masculine name Felix, meaning 'happy' or 'fortunate.' It entered English usage in the Middle Ages, often associated with saints and early Christians. While never among the top-ranked names, Felicia experienced a notable peak in popularity in the 1980s: in 1986, it reached its highest rank at 152, a year that marked the beginning of a gradual decline. According to recent data from 2025, the name ranks 5,554th with a frequency of about 1 in 73,058 births, a sharp drop from its mid-century heights. Felicia has maintained a steady presence, particularly in states like California, where it has been most common. Its cheerful meaning and melodic sound have kept it in occasional use, though it is now less frequent.

Felicia is the feminine form of the Latin name Felix, meaning 'happy' or 'fortunate.' The name was used in ancient Rome and later adopted by early Christians, gaining popularity in medieval Europe. It saw a resurgence in English-speaking countries in the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1980s.