Alethea is a unique and captivating female given name of Greek origin. Derived from the Greek word "alethēs" which means truth or reality, Alethea embodies the qualities of honesty, authenticity, and transparency.
The name Alethea has been used throughout history by notable individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields. One such figure is Alethea Aycock, an American artist known for her vibrant and expressive paintings. Another is Alethea McGrath, an Australian actress who gained critical acclaim for her roles in films like "Strictly Ballroom" and "The Sound of One Hand Clapping".
While not as common as some other names, Alethea has a distinct charm that sets it apart. It's a name that commands attention and leaves a lasting impression. Whether you're looking for a unique name for your child or simply interested in the origins and history of this captivating moniker, Alethea is certainly worth exploring further.
The name Alethea has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the past century in the United States. Between 1892 and 1925, there were fewer than 33 births each year with this name. However, starting from 1926, the number of newborn girls named Alethea began to increase steadily.
The peak period for this name was between 1948 and 1957, during which time there were more than 30 births annually. In particular, 1955 saw a high of 58 births. Following this trend, the number of babies named Alethea continued to rise in the late 1960s and early 1970s, reaching an all-time peak of 322 births in 1973.
However, popularity started declining again after 1975, with fewer than 100 births each year. This downward trend continued until 1994, where it remained below the 50 mark annually.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in interest for the name Alethea. Between 2016 and 2023, the number of babies named Alethea has consistently stayed above 25 births per year, peaking at 80 births each in both 2021 and 2022. This indicates that while it may not be among the most popular names today, there is still significant interest in the name Alethea among parents.
In total, over the past century, there have been approximately 4847 newborn girls named Alethea in the United States.