The name Erica is derived from the Greek word "erike", meaning "heather". It is believed to have originated in ancient Greece, where heather was a common plant found throughout the region. The name was likely given to girls as a reference to the beauty and resilience of the heather plant.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Erica can be found in the works of the ancient Greek poet Theocritus, who lived in the 3rd century BC. In his idylls, he mentioned a character named Erica, though little is known about her significance.

During the Roman era, the name Erica gained popularity as the Romans adopted many Greek names. It is mentioned in several ancient texts and inscriptions, indicating its use among both Greek and Roman families.

In the Middle Ages, the name Erica fell out of favor in most parts of Europe, but it maintained a presence in certain regions, particularly in Scandinavia and the British Isles. One notable figure from this period was Erica the Brave, a 10th-century Norwegian noblewoman known for her courage and leadership during Viking raids.

The name Erica experienced a resurgence in popularity during the Renaissance period, particularly in Italy and other parts of southern Europe. One of the most famous bearers of this name was Erica Pio di Savoia (1475-1521), an Italian noblewoman and patron of the arts who played a significant role in the cultural renaissance of her time.

In more recent history, several notable figures have borne the name Erica. These include Erica Terwilliger (1899-1992), an American painter and illustrator; Erica Jong (born 1942), an American novelist known for her work "Fear of Flying"; and Erica Durance (born 1978), a Canadian actress best known for her role as Lois Lane in the television series "Smallville".

Throughout its long history, the name Erica has maintained its association with beauty, resilience, and a connection to nature, reflecting its origins in the ancient Greek word for heather.