Alyce is a unique and distinctive feminine given name that originates from English. It is a variant spelling of the more common Alice, which itself has origins dating back to the Middle Ages. The name Alyce comes from the Old French Aalis, which was a diminutive form of Adelais or Adalheidis.
The meaning behind the name Alyce is associated with nobility and high status. It translates to "noble" or "of noble rank," reflecting its origins as a name reserved for members of royal or aristocratic families. The name gained popularity in England during the Middle Ages, likely due to the influence of French culture at the time.
Over the centuries, Alyce has evolved from being primarily used among the nobility to becoming more widely adopted by commoners. Today, it is still considered a classic and elegant name choice for girls. Despite its traditional roots, however, Alyce remains unique and distinctive enough to stand out from other popular names like Alice or Allison.
In literature, one notable reference to the name Alyce can be found in Lewis Carroll's "Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There." In this sequel to "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," the main character's name is spelled as Alyce. This association has likely contributed to the name's enduring appeal among fans of classic children's literature.
In conclusion, the name Alyce offers an attractive blend of historical significance, elegance, and uniqueness. Its origins date back centuries, but its meaning remains relevant today – making it a timeless choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful name for their daughters.
The name Alyce experienced a significant rise in popularity from the late 1800s to its peak around World War I, with over 400 births per year between 1914 and 1921. However, it began declining thereafter, dropping below 100 births per year by the mid-1960s, and remained relatively rare until a slight resurgence in recent years, reaching 39 births in 2023. Overall, Alyce has been one of the least popular names in its heyday compared to other popular choices during that period.