Porcia is a rare and unique feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Roman family name Porcius, which was taken from the Latin word 'porca', meaning 'sow' or 'female pig'. The name Porcia itself means 'relating to the pig'.
The name Porcia has a long history dating back to ancient Rome. One of the most notable figures with this name is Porcia Catonis, who was the wife of the famous Roman orator and statesman Marcus Tullius Cicero. She was known for her intelligence, strength of character, and devotion to her husband. According to legend, when Cicero was exiled by Octavian in 58 BC, Porcia urged him to return and defend himself against false accusations, but he refused for fear of being executed. In response, she attempted suicide by swallowing a poisoned pin, but it failed to kill her. When Cicero returned from exile years later, he praised his wife's courage and devotion.
Another famous figure with the name Porcia was Porcia Ferguson, an African-American activist who fought against racial segregation in the early 20th century. She was born into slavery in Virginia but escaped north during the Civil War and became involved in the abolitionist movement. Later, she settled in Washington D.C. and worked as a cook and domestic servant while advocating for civil rights.
Despite its historical significance, Porcia is not a common name today. It has never been among the top 1000 names for girls in the United States or other English-speaking countries. However, its unique origin and association with strong women throughout history make it an intriguing choice for parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful name for their daughter.
The name Porcia has had a fluctuating popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 167 babies given this name since 1968.
In 1974 and again in 1980, there were 6 births each year. However, it seems that 1984 was a particularly popular year for the name Porcia, with 12 births recorded that year - more than double any other single year on record!
The highest number of births recorded in a decade was between 1985 and 1990, with a total of 63 babies named Porcia born during this time. This period also included the peak year for Porcia births, which was 1990 with 18 births.
Interestingly, there is a noticeable gap in recorded births from 1997 onwards, suggesting that the name may have fallen out of favor or been less commonly used in recent years. Despite this trend, it's clear that Porcia has had its moments of popularity throughout history and remains a unique choice for parents looking for an uncommon name for their child.