Monica is a name of Latin origin, meaning “advisor.” It gained popularity in the English-speaking world in the 20th century. The name is associated with Saint Monica, the mother of Saint Augustine. In popular culture, the character Monica Geller from the TV show “Friends” brought renewed attention to the name in the 1990s. As of 2024, Monica ranks around 728th in popularity for girls’ names in the United States, showing a slight decline from its peak in the 1970s and 1980s. Despite this, it remains a classic choice with a strong, feminine sound. The name can inspire confidence and wisdom in its bearer, reflecting its meaning of “advisor.” Famous Monicas include tennis player Monica Seles and actress Monica Bellucci.
