Find out how popular the first name Ceceilia has been for the last 44 years (from 1980 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Ceceilia by gender

Based on the last 44 years of data, Ceceilia is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Ceceilia.

The history of the first name Ceceilia

The given name Ceceilia has its origins in Latin, derived from the Roman family name Caecilius. It is believed to have been initially formed from the Latin word "caecus," meaning "blind." The name gained popularity during the early Christian era and was borne by several notable figures within the Catholic Church.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be traced back to Saint Cecilia, a Roman martyr who lived in the 3rd century AD. According to legend, she was a noble lady who dedicated her life to Christianity and remained steadfast in her faith, even in the face of persecution. Her feast day is celebrated on November 22nd in the Roman Catholic Church, and she is revered as the patron saint of musicians and Church music.

In the 5th century, the name Ceceilia was further popularized by Cecilia Arethusa, a Roman matron and early Christian saint. She is known for her steadfast devotion to her faith and her charitable works, which included providing shelter and aid to persecuted Christians during the reign of Emperor Diocletian.

During the Middle Ages, the name Ceceilia was particularly prevalent in Italy and other parts of Europe. One notable figure from this era was Cecilia of Rome (1200-1290), a Benedictine nun and mystic who was known for her spiritual visions and writings. Her legacy inspired the establishment of several religious orders dedicated to her name.

In the 16th century, Cecilia Renata of Austria (1611-1644), the daughter of Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand II, bore the name. She was a skilled composer and patron of the arts, and her influence helped shape the musical culture of her time.

Another notable figure was Cecilia Beaux (1855-1942), an American painter and member of the Philadelphia artistic elite. She was widely acclaimed for her portraits and depictions of contemporary life, and her work is celebrated as a significant contribution to American art.

Throughout history, the name Ceceilia has been associated with various cultural and religious traditions, reflecting its enduring appeal and versatility. Its connection to music, faith, and artistic expression has contributed to its lasting significance and resonance across generations.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Ceceilia was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Ceceilia, please contact us.

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