Find out how popular the first name Xica has been for the last 1 years (from 1982 to 1982) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Xica by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Xica is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1982, there were 8 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Xica.

The history of the first name Xica

The name Xica originated from the Tupi language, spoken by indigenous peoples of Brazil. It is believed to have been derived from the Tupi word "xi'ka," meaning "young" or "new." The name likely emerged during the pre-Columbian era, before the arrival of European colonizers in South America.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Xica dates back to the 16th century, when it appeared in historical accounts of interactions between Portuguese settlers and the Tupi people. It was often used as a feminine name, reflecting the Tupi cultural tradition of naming children based on their perceived qualities or circumstances surrounding their birth.

Throughout the colonial period in Brazil, the name Xica gained popularity among both indigenous and mixed-race communities. It was embraced as a symbol of resilience and adaptation in the face of cultural upheaval and oppression.

In the 18th century, a notable figure named Xica da Silva (1734-1796) rose to prominence in the mining town of Diamantina, Brazil. She was a former enslaved woman who accumulated significant wealth and influence, challenging societal norms and becoming a prominent figure in the region's elite circles.

Another historical figure bearing the name Xica was Xica Manicongo (c. 1610-1664), a former queen of the Ndongo Kingdom in present-day Angola. She played a pivotal role in resisting Portuguese colonization and defending her people's sovereignty.

In the realm of literature, the name Xica gained recognition through the novel "Xica da Silva" by João Felício dos Santos, published in 1976. The book explored the life of the aforementioned figure from Diamantina and her impact on Brazilian society.

Outside of Brazil, the name Xica has been used sparingly, often as a variant or adaptation of other names. However, its origins and historical significance remain rooted in the Tupi culture of South America, serving as a testament to the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of the region.

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

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

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