Meaning, origin, history
Portia is a unique and elegant female given name of Latin origin. It means "firstborn" or "early born" in Latin. The name Portia was popularized by Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice," where the protagonist, Portia, was known for her intelligence, wit, and beauty. In the play, she dresses as a lawyer to defend her fiancé in court and ultimately saves his life. Prior to Shakespeare's play, there is little historical evidence of the name being used. However, it has gained popularity since then and continues to be a beloved choice among parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their daughters.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Portia since 1880
Total births
10,593
Total since 1880
Peak year
1989
259 births
in 2023
15
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-51%
↘
vs previous 5 years