Felicity is a unique and elegant female given name of Latin origin. Its meaning is "happiness" or "good fortune," both of which are positive and desirable qualities to wish upon someone. The name Felicity comes from the Latin word 'felicitas,' which was used to denote happiness, good luck, and prosperity.
The name Felicity has a rich history and has been used throughout different periods in various cultures. One of its earliest appearances can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was used as an adjective meaning "happy" or "lucky." However, it wasn't until the 16th century that Felicity began to be used as a given name for females.
In literature, Felicity has been used as a character's name in several notable works. One of the most famous appearances is in Charles Dickens' novel "Dombey and Son," published in 1848. In this book, Felicity is portrayed as a beautiful and virtuous woman who ultimately marries the protagonist, Paul Dombey.
Throughout history, many individuals have been named Felicity due to its positive connotations and elegant sound. Today, it continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a distinctive yet meaningful name for their daughters.
The name Felicity has been popular among parents in the United States for many decades, with a notable increase in its usage since the late 1990s.
In the early years, between 1935 and 1959, the number of babies named Felicity remained relatively low, with fewer than 14 births per year. However, starting from 1960, there was a significant increase in the popularity of the name, with over 14 births recorded that year.
The peak of popularity for the name Felicity occurred between 2015 and 2017, during which time more than 900 babies were named Felicity each year. In fact, the name reached its highest point in 2017 with 937 births.
However, since then, there has been a slight decrease in the usage of the name Felicity, with approximately 800 to 900 babies being named Felicity each year between 2018 and 2022.
In total, from 1935 to 2022, there have been over 17,000 babies named Felicity in the United States. Despite its fluctuations in popularity over the years, the name Felicity remains a beloved choice among parents, with many families choosing this name for their daughters due to its positive connotations and elegant sound.