Fabiola is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It comes from the Roman family name Fabius, which derives from the Latin word 'faba', meaning 'bean'. The name Fabiola was popularized by Saint Fabiola, who was a wealthy Roman widow in the fourth century known for her charity and generosity. She founded a hospital and dedicated herself to helping the poor and sick. Despite its early Christian associations, Fabiola remains a secular name today, popular across many cultures and languages. It has been used in various forms throughout history, such as Fabia, Fabiana, Fabienne, and Fabiola. In English-speaking countries, Fabiola is often associated with the character Fabiola from Charlotte Brontë's novel "The Professor". However, its use spans far beyond literature, making it a timeless and universal choice for parents seeking a classic yet distinctive name for their daughter.
"The name Fabiola experienced a consistent presence with an average of 7 births per year between 1985 and 1997, peaking at 10 births in 1993."