Dominica is a unique and distinctive feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "dominus," which means "lord" or "master." Thus, the name Dominica can be translated to mean "of the Lord" or "belonging to the Lord."
The name Dominica has been used in various forms throughout history, with some variations including Dominique, Dominika, and Dominiga. In many cultures, it is often associated with female saints who were known for their piety and devotion to God.
One of the most notable historical figures named Dominica was Saint Dominic (1170-1221), a Spanish priest and founder of the Dominican Order, which was devoted to preaching and study. Although he was male, his name has influenced many female names throughout history, including Dominica.
In some cases, the name Dominica is also associated with the island nation of Dominica in the Caribbean Sea, which was named after a Spanish explorer named Christopher Columbus who landed there on a Sunday (Dominica in Latin) during his voyages in 1493.
Despite its historical and religious significance, the name Dominica has not been as widely used as some other feminine names. However, it remains a distinctive and meaningful choice for parents looking for a unique name for their daughter. The name Dominica can also be shortened to Dominic or Dominique, providing additional nickname options. Overall, the name Dominica is a powerful and meaningful choice that carries a rich history behind it.
The name Dominica experienced fluctuations in popularity over the past century, with notable peaks and valleys in the annual birth statistics. The highest number of births recorded was 56 in both 1979 and 1980, while the lowest was 5 in multiple years spanning from 1909 to 2023. Overall, there have been a total of 2323 births named Dominica since 1909.