Angelita is a Spanish feminine name derived from the word "angel," which has its roots in the Greek word "angelos," meaning "messenger." The name is a diminutive form of the name Angela, which itself is derived from the Latin word "angelus," meaning "angel" or "messenger of God."

The name Angelita was likely first used in Spain during the Middle Ages, a time when the veneration of angels and saints was a common practice in Catholic cultures. The name was likely given to girls in the hope that they would embody the qualities associated with angels, such as purity, innocence, and divine protection.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Angelita can be found in the work of Spanish playwright and poet Lope de Vega (1562-1635), who featured a character named Angelita in one of his plays. Additionally, the name appears in various historical records from Spain and Latin America, indicating its widespread use among Spanish-speaking populations.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Angelita. One of the earliest was Angelita de la Cruz (1642-1665), a Spanish nun and mystic who was known for her visions and religious devotion. Another historical figure with this name was Angelita Bautista (1901-1949), a Mexican actress and singer who appeared in numerous films during the Golden Age of Mexican cinema.

Other notable individuals named Angelita include Angelita Abreu (1892-1973), a Puerto Rican writer and educator who was a pioneer in the field of children's literature; Angelita Lind (1920-1992), a Swedish-American actress who appeared in several Hollywood films in the 1940s and 1950s; and Angelita Trujillo (1918-2004), a Dominican first lady who was the wife of former Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo.

The name Angelita has maintained its popularity in Spanish-speaking cultures over the centuries, serving as a reminder of the enduring influence of religious beliefs and cultural traditions on naming practices.