📅 Since 1880🏆 41 years in top 1002.81% of births at peak
How to pronounce Jessica
JES·ik·uh
/ˈdʒɛs.ɪk.ə/ · stress on JES · 3 syllables
“Wealthy”
United Kingdom origin · Girl name
What does Jessica mean and where does it come from?
Jessica is of Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew name יִשְׁרָאֵל (Yisra'el) meaning 'wealthy' or 'to behold.' The name was introduced to English speakers through William Shakespeare's play 'The Merchant of Venice', where Jessica is the daughter of Shylock. The name gained popularity in the 20th
Cultural significance
Jessica has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of wealthy.
Peak popularity
Reached #1 in 1985 — currently #550 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Declining — down 42 spots — currently #550 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#550 · Top 0.41%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#550
550
▼ down 42 · -11% births
2022
#508
620
▼ down 31 · -5% births
2021
#477
656
▼ down 79 · -15% births
2020
#398
775
▼ down 192 · -51% births
2015
#206
1,587
▼ down 114 · -50% births
2010
#92
3,198
▼ down 65 · -61% births
2005
#27
8,112
▼ down 19 · -48% births
2000
#8
15,709
▼ down 7 · -44% births
1995
#1
27,938
stable · -40% births
1990
#1
46,475
stable · -4% births
1985
#1
48,347
▲ up 2 · +43% births
1980
#3
33,921
▲ up 10 · +162% births
1975
#13
12,929
▲ up 85 · +221% births
1970
#98
4,023
▲ up 118 · +163% births
1965
#216
1,530
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Jessica
1985Rank #1
48,347
#484
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Jessica
Jessica has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It reached the #1 spot in 1985, making it the most popular girl name in America that year. Over 1051K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #705 in 1880 to #550 in 2023. Jessica is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Jessica means "Wealthy" — a name rooted in United Kingdom tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Jessica?
Jessica is currently ranked #550 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Jessica?
Jessica originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Jessica?
Jessica is a three-syllable name pronounced JH EH1 S IH0 K AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Jessica?
Jessica pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar United Kingdom heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Jessica
For a sister
Jessica & Ashley♡
Jessica & Toyah♡
Jessica & Trevor♡
Jessica & Lillian♡
For a brother
Jessica & Richardjames♡
Jessica & Talbott♡
Jessica & Adderly♡
Jessica & Trevor♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#550
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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