Elasia is a feminine name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman gens Aelia. The gens Aelia was one of the most prominent and ancient patrician families in Rome, with their origins tracing back to the early beginnings of the Roman Republic.
The name Elasia itself does not have a specific meaning or etymology beyond its association with the gens Aelia. However, it is believed that the gens Aelia may have been named after the Latin word "aether," which means "upper air" or "heaven." This could imply that those belonging to this gens were seen as elevated or heavenly in some way.
Throughout history, there are several notable figures associated with the name Elasia. One of the most famous is Elodia Aelia Galla Placidia, who was a Roman empress and the daughter of Emperor Theodosius I. She played a significant role in politics during the late Roman Empire and was known for her influence over her son, Emperor Valentinian III.
Another notable figure is Saint Elasia, also known as Saint Eulalia, who was a Christian martyr from Mérida, Spain. She is believed to have been executed around the year 304 AD during the persecutions of Christians under Emperor Diocletian. Her feast day is celebrated on December 10th.
While not as common today as some other names, Elasia remains a unique and elegant choice for parents seeking a distinctive name with ancient Roman roots. Its association with prominent historical figures adds to its allure, making it an attractive option for those who appreciate a rich and storied past behind their child's name.
The name Elasia has seen a varied number of births each year in the United States from 1997 to 2021. The earliest year on record with births for this name was 1997, with a total of 5 newborns bearing the name Elasia that year. This number fluctuated over the years, reaching its peak in 2014 with 13 babies named Elasia.
After 1997, there were increases and decreases in the number of births each year until 2006, when it reached another peak at 12 births for that year. However, this trend did not continue consistently as there was a drop to 5 births in both 2004 and 2005.
There seemed to be an upward trend from 2007 onwards, with 9 births in 2008 and a significant increase to 18 births in 2010. This trend continued through 2013 with 10 births that year. After a slight dip to 6 births in 2012, there was another peak of 13 births in 2014.
However, from 2015 onwards, the number of births for this name decreased again, reaching its lowest point since 1997 with only 5 births in both 2021 and 2017. Despite these fluctuations, it is clear that Elasia has remained a distinctive name choice over the past two decades, with a total of 189 babies named Elasia born in the United States between 1997 and 2021.
It's fascinating to observe how the popularity of this name has ebbed and flowed over the years. While it may not have reached the heights of some other names in terms of sheer numbers, its consistent presence shows that Elasia continues to be a unique and meaningful choice for parents across the United States.