The given name Angelica has its origins in the Greek language and can be traced back to ancient times. It is derived from the Greek word "angelos," which means "messenger" or "angel." The name is closely associated with the concept of angels, celestial beings who serve as intermediaries between God and humanity in various religious traditions.

In the Christian tradition, the name Angelica gained significance as it was associated with the Archangels, such as Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, who played important roles in biblical narratives. The name was also used to honor saints and martyrs, particularly Saint Angelica, a 5th-century nun who lived in Constantinople and was known for her piety and charitable works.

One of the earliest known references to the name Angelica can be found in the works of the ancient Greek playwright Aristophanes, who lived in the 5th century BCE. In his play "The Birds," a character named Angelica is mentioned, suggesting that the name was in use during that time period.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Angelica. One of the most famous was Angelica Kauffmann (1741-1807), a Swiss-Austrian Neoclassical painter who achieved great success and recognition in her lifetime. Another notable Angelica was Angelica Pickles, a character from the popular children's television series "Rugrats," which aired from the 1990s to the early 2000s.

Other notable Angelicas include:

1. Angelica Catalani (1780-1849), an Italian opera singer known for her remarkable vocal range and virtuosity.
2. Angelica Balabanoff (1878-1965), a Russian-born revolutionary and feminist who played a significant role in the Italian socialist movement.
3. Angelica Rozeanu (1910-2006), a Romanian-born American actress and artist who worked in both film and theater.
4. Angelica Huston (born 1951), an American actress, director, and writer, known for her roles in films like "Prizzi's Honor" and "The Addams Family."
5. Angelica Garnett (1918-2012), an English writer and artist, and the daughter of renowned authors Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant.

These are just a few examples of the many individuals throughout history who have carried the name Angelica, a name with deep roots in ancient Greek culture and religious traditions, and one that has continued to resonate across various eras and cultures.