Monica

Fact-checked by Jaime Babiera

1. Monica name meaning and origin

The name Monica is believed to have multiple origins. Etymologically, it has Latin roots, meaning “truth” or “advisor.” Some sources also suggest that this name came from North Africa, particularly with Berber and Punic influence. This attribution gives the name a connotation of wisdom and guidance.

Monica gained widespread recognition in Christian tradition through Saint Monica of Hippo (331-387 AD). the mother of Saint Augustine. Born in present-day Algeria, her perseverance in faith and devotion to her son's spiritual welfare made her the patron saint of mothers. The name experienced a significant momentum during the late 20th century, particularly in Western countries. In the 1970s, it peaked consistently in the United States.

Monica

References:

Monica Name Meaning and Monica Family History at FamilySearch

2. Monica name popularity

Girl

Boy

in 2023

from 2022

Popularity of Monica

United States

United Kingdom

Monica is predominantly a feminine name of Latin origin, derived from the word "monere" meaning "to advise." While primarily used for girls in both the United States and the United Kingdom, records indicate it has occasionally been given to boys in both countries, though this usage remains quite rare.

The name gained significant popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, with a notable boost in recognition following the character Monica Geller from the hit TV show "Friends" in the 1990s. Though its popularity has declined somewhat in recent decades, Monica remains a classic, elegant name that conveys strength and wisdom across English-speaking countries.

3. Monica in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

The name Monica has been used in various forms of fiction, both in classic literature and present media. A list of some prominent characters bearing the name in fictional works is listed below.

Literature:

Monica de Sousa

The title character of the long-running Brazilian comic strip and franchise Monica's Gang (Turma da Mônica), created by Mauricio de Sousa.

Monica Madden

Her character is described as the youngest and most attractive sister in the novel “The Odd Women”. She married Edmund Widdowson, who is known as hot-tempered and jealous.

Monica Rambeau

A prominent character in Marvel Comics, who has held several superhero identities, including Captain Marvel and Photon.

Monica

Isaac's former girlfriend in John Green's 2012 novel “The Fault in Our Stars”, who breaks up with him after learning he’s about to go blind.

Films and Television:

Monica Geller

One of the main character of the popular American sitcom “Friends”, portrayed by Courteney Cox. Known as the “Mother Hen” of the group.

Monica

The caseworker and angel on the American supernatural drama series “Touched by an Angel”, which aired from 1994 to 2003.

Monica Fuentes

A U.S. Customs agent who is tasked with capturing Carter Verone in the film “2 Fast 2 Furious.” This character was portrayed by Eva Mendes.

Monica Swinton

A character in the Steven Spielberg film “A.I. Artificial Intelligence” (2001), who adopts the robotic child David.

Mónica Gaztambide

She was the secretary of the Royal Mint of Spain in the hit Spanish crime drama “Money Heist” (also known as La Casa de Papel).

Video Games:

Monica

She is a non-playable character in “Fire Emblem: Three Houses”, who is a former student of Garreg Mach Monastery.

Monica

A playable character in the mobile game “Dead or Alive Xtreme Venus Vacation”, introduced as a young casino dealer.

4. Celebrities with the Name Monica

Aside from fiction, the name Monica has also been carried by real-life figures in entertainment, sports, and music. From actors to athletes, these celebrities have helped keep the name visible in popular culture.

Historical Figures:

Monica Lewinsky

An American social activist, writer, and public speaker whose main focus revolves around anti-cyberbullying.

Monica Dickens

She is a British author of 40 books for adults and children, and a great-granddaughter of novelist Charles Dickens.

Monica Dickens

Image source: Wikipedia

Monica Vitti

An acclaimed Italian actress, known as the "Queen of Italian cinema," who became an icon for her starring roles in films like “La Notte,” “Red Desert,” and L’Avventura.

Contemporary Celebrities:

Monica Bellucci

An Italian actress and model known for roles in “The Matrix Reloaded” and “Spectre. ”

Monica Seles

A professional tennis player who won nine Grand Slam singles titles and became the youngest-ever French Open champion at the age of 16.

Monica Potter

American actress known for her roles in films like Patch Adams and the NBC drama series “Parenthood”.

Monica Raymund

American actress known for her roles as Gabriela Dawson in “Chicago Fire” and Jackie Quiñones in the crime drama “Hightown”.

Monica Ali

Best-selling writer and novelist whose book “Brick Lane” was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize in 2003 and adapted into a film.

5. Variations and nicknames of Monica

The name Monica has traveled through centuries and cultures, evolving into various forms while maintaining its distinguished heritage. In Italian, it remains Monica, while Spanish-speaking regions sometimes use Mónica with an accent. European variations include Monika (German, Polish, Czech, and Croatian, Monique (French), and Mònica (Catalan). These variants demonstrate how the name adapts phonetically while preserving its essential character across linguistic boundaries.

Beyond formal variants, Monica has inspired an array of affectionate nicknames that highlight its versatility. Common diminutives include Mona, Moni, Nica, and Monique, which offer casual alternatives to the full name. More playful options like Momo, Monnie, and Moana have become increasingly popular, especially among younger generations. Friends and family might use terms of endearment such as Monicake, Mona Lisa, or Mone. Each nickname brings its own personality and charm, allowing individuals named Monica to select the variation that best suits their identity or allowing loved ones to express their affection through these personalized shortenings.

6. Best name combinations with Monica

names that pair well with Monica:

Monica Claire
Monica Elise
Monica Alison
Monica Isabella
Monica Gabrielle
Monica Celeste
Monica Victoria
Monica Camille
Monica Juliette
Monica Genevieve
Monica Vivienne
Monica Adeline
Monica Evangeline
Monica Josephine
Monica Janis
Monica Janeth
Monica Beatrice
Monica Roxana
Monica Eloise
Monica Valentina
Elena Monica
Isabel Monica
Lucia Monica
Olivia Monica
Amelia Monica
Katrina Monica
Catalina Monica
Charlotte Monica
Julia Monica
Genevieve Monica
Kylie Monica
Francesca Monica
Lena Monica
Natalia Monica
Pearl Monica
Gabriella Monica
Lacey Monica
Aurelia Monica
Viviana Monica

7. Numerology of Monica name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

M(4) + O(6) + N(5) + I(9) + C(3) + A(1) = 28 → 2 + 8 = 10 → 1 + 0 = 1
M=4, O=6, N=5, I=9, C=3, A=1
4+6+5+9+3+1 = 28
2+8 = 10
1+0 = 1

The Destiny Number 1 suggests a natural leader with independence, originality, and ambition. In career, you thrive in positions requiring initiative and focus. In relationships, you value mutual understanding and may need to balance your strong desire for autonomy with building a deep and meaningful connection.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

7
O(6) + I(9) + A(1) = 16 → 1 + 6 = 7

With Soul Urge Number 7, you have a deep inner need for knowledge, spirituality, and understanding. You seek truth and meaning in life. In career, you excel in research, scientific studies, or specialized fields. In relationships, you value depth over superficiality and need a partner who respects your need for personal space.

Personality Number:

3
M(4) + N(5) + C(3) = 12 → 1 + 2 = 3

Personality number 3 indicates someone creative, expressive, and opportunistic. You present yourself as subtly optimistic and truly communicative. In career, your creative abilities and communication skills are apparent. In relationships, you're seen as charming and engaging, bringing joy, inspiration, and emotional richness to those around you.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

8. Names similar to Monica

Like Monica ? What about:

Benjamin

Martino

Imogene

Adeline

Carina

Prisila

Dominic

Elijah

Desiree

Klaudia

Elena

Emaline

Gabriel

Addison

Delaney

Genesis

Adalyn

Gideon

Bellamy

Damien

Common sibling names

Sisters

Danielle

Lillian

Regina

Gianna

Natalie

Claudia

Genesis

Addison

Jocelyn

Adelyn

Abigail

Adeline

Elena

Caroline

Adalyn

Rosemary

Livia

Gloria

Bellamy

Delaney

Brothers

Anthony

Elias

Bellamy

Cassian

Gabriel

Gideon

Antony

Elijah

Adrian

Gregory

Mario

Francesco

Julien

Benjamin

Antoni

Ignacio

Fabian

Dominic

Addison

Damien

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Baby name lists including Monica

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Monica

1. Monica name meaning and origin

References:

2. Monica name popularity

3. Monica in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

4. Celebrities with the Name Monica

5. Variations and nicknames of Monica

6. Best name combinations with Monica

names that pair well with Monica:

7. Numerology of Monica name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

Personality Number:

8. Names similar to Monica

Like Monica ? What about:

Common sibling names

Find the Perfect Name for Your Baby

Search by name

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Baby name lists including Monica

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