Declining since 1987, #6,325 for girls today.
Popularity of Monika since 1942
Babies named Monika per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1990, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Monika's real moment was 1996.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 30 |
| 1950s | 374 |
| 1960s | 1,337 |
| 1970s | 1,866 |
| 1980s | 2,162 |
| 1990s | 2,280 |
| 2000s | 1,128 |
| 2010s | 481 |
| 2020s | 152 |
Meaning & origin
Monika is a name with a long European history, particularly in Slavic and Latin traditions. First recorded in U.S. data in 1942, it saw a surge in popularity during the 1990s, reaching its peak rank in 1996. Since then, its usage has steadily fallen, reflecting a broader shift away from traditional names with religious associations. While top states are not recorded for this name, Monika remains a familiar choice in Polish-American and other Slavic diaspora communities. Its trajectory of decline since 1987 suggests it may continue to fade from common use, though it retains a classic appeal.
Monika (or Monica) is a name of uncertain etymology, though it is most commonly linked to the Latin verb 'monere' (to advise or warn). In Slavic regions, Monika is a widespread form of Monica, popularized through Christian veneration of Saint Monica, the mother of Saint Augustine. The name gained broad usage in Poland, Croatia, and other Slavic countries, especially from the mid-20th century onward.
Where Monika is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Monika” around the world
Where Monika lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mona, Nika, Mon
Sibling names for Monika
Names that share Monika's style, for a brother or sister.
