Meaning, origin, history
Jessica is a popular female name of English origin, derived from the male name Jesse, which means "God is my judge" in Hebrew. The name has been widely used since the Middle Ages and was originally associated with the biblical figure Jesse, who was the father of King David.
The name Jessica gained significant popularity in the 20th century due to various notable figures bearing the name, such as actress Jessica Tandy and poet Jessica Mitford. Additionally, it is believed that Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice" contributed to the name's popularity, as the character Jessica appears prominently in the story.
Today, Jessica remains a popular choice for parents naming their daughters, ranking consistently within the top 100 names for girls in many English-speaking countries. Despite its historical association with biblical figures and literary characters, the name Jessica has evolved into a modern classic that is timeless and enduring.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Jessicia since 1880
Total births
348
Total since 1880
Peak year
1987
29 births
in 1999
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years