Meaning, origin, history
Jessica is a female given name of English origin, derived from the Latin name "Irene," which means "peace." The name has been popular throughout history and has been associated with various historical figures.
The earliest known use of the name Jessica can be traced back to Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice," written around 1596. In the play, Jessica is the daughter of Shylock, a Jewish moneylender. She elopes with Lorenzo, a Christian, and converts to Christianity. This character portrayal has likely contributed to the name's popularity in English-speaking countries.
The name Jessica gained further popularity in the 20th century, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s. It was ranked among the top 10 most popular names for girls in several years during this period. Today, it remains a popular choice for parents looking to give their daughters a classic yet distinctive name.
Overall, Jessica is a name with a rich history and a timeless appeal. Its meaning of "peace" makes it a fitting choice for parents seeking a positive and meaningful name for their daughter.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Jessca since 1880
Total births
5
Total since 1880
Peak year
1990
5 births
in 1990
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years