Jessica

What does the baby name Jessica mean? Learn about what Jessica means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Jessica - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Jessica: J-E-S-S-I-C-A, is a 7-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Jessica: JES-i-kə; JESS ih kah
Meaning of Jessica: He sees, god beholds, one who can foresee, wealthy, foresight.
Origin of Jessica: The name 'Jessica' has a rich history that dates back centuries. It is believed to have originated from William Shakespeare 's play, 'The Merchant of Venice', written in the late 16th century. In the play, Shakespeare created the character of 'Jessica', the daughter of the Jewish moneylender Shylock. This character, with her beauty and charm, captivated audiences and left a lasting impression. The name 'Jessica' quickly gained popularity after the play 's debut, becoming a symbol of femininity and allure.; American Names; Australian Names; Celebrity Names; Classic Names; English Names; Hebrew Names; Literary Names; New Zealand Names; Shakespeare Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Jessica: Jess; Jessa; Jessalyn; Jesse; Jessia; Jessie
Popularity of Jessica: Since its introduction in Shakespeare 's play, the name 'Jessica' has experienced waves of popularity. In the late 20th century, it reached its peak, becoming one of the most popular names for girls in the United States. Notable spikes in usage can be attributed to cultural influences, such as the 1990s television show 'Friends', where one of the main characters, Rachel Green, named her daughter Emma Geller-Green. This character 's choice of the name 'Emma' sparked a trend, leading to an increase in names with similar sounds, including 'Jessica'.; Jessica currently has 4923 likes, and is the 6th most liked girl's name. The name Emma is slightly more popular than Jessica.

Etymology of Jessica

The etymology of the name 'Jessica' is rooted in Hebrew and carries a beautiful meaning. It is believed to be derived from the Hebrew name 'Yiskah', which means 'foresight' or 'to behold'. This meaning perfectly aligns with the character of 'Jessica' in 'The Merchant of Venice', as she represents a vision of beauty and grace.

Cultural Significance of Jessica

While the name 'Jessica' does not hold significant cultural associations, it remains a beloved name in various communities. Its popularity has transcended cultural boundaries, making it a universally recognized and appreciated name.