Find out how popular the first name Modesta has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Modesta by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Modesta is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Modesta.

The history of the first name Modesta

The name Modesta has its origins in Latin, derived from the word "modestus" which means "modest" or "restrained." It emerged as a feminine name during the Roman era, reflecting the cultural value placed on virtues like humility and moderation.

Modesta was a relatively common name among Roman women, particularly those from affluent families who sought to instill modest behavior in their daughters. It carried connotations of propriety, grace, and reserve, qualities that were highly regarded in ancient Roman society.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Modesta can be found in ancient Roman inscriptions and historical texts. A notable example is Modesta, the wife of the Roman emperor Pertinax, who reigned briefly in 193 CE. Her name has been etched into historical records, though little is known about her life beyond her association with the imperial family.

In the early days of Christianity, the name Modesta gained further prominence as it resonated with the teachings of humility and modesty. Several early Christian saints bore this name, including Saint Modesta, a 4th-century virgin martyr from Sicily, and Saint Modesta of Trier, a 7th-century abbess revered for her piety and charitable works.

Throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance, the name Modesta remained in use, though its popularity waxed and waned across different regions of Europe. One notable bearer of the name was Modesta Pozzo (1555-1592), an Italian painter and art teacher who achieved recognition for her portraits and religious works during the late Renaissance period.

As the centuries passed, the name Modesta continued to be used, although less frequently than in its heyday. Among its more notable bearers was Modesta Bor (1926-1998), a Polish actress renowned for her roles in films such as "The Triangular Square" and "The Promised Land."

While the name Modesta may not be as widely used today as it once was, its rich historical roots and enduring association with modesty and restraint have ensured its place in the annals of name traditions, particularly in regions with strong Latin cultural influences.

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 Modesta was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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