What does Phylicia mean and where does it come from?
Phylicia is a modern variation of the name Felicia, derived from Latin 'felix', meaning 'happy' or 'fortunate'. It gained popularity in the U.S. in the late 20th century, partially due to actress Phylicia Rashad, who is known for her role in 'The Cosby Show'.
Cultural significance
Phylicia has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of blessed; happy.
Peak popularity
Reached #651 in 1987 — currently #792 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Phylicia?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Phylicia?
Phylicia works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Phylicia Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Phylicia Rose
Floral · soft ending
Phylicia Mae
Sweet · timeless
Phylicia Claire
French influence · crisp
Phylicia Jane
Literary · strong
Phylicia Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Phylicia right now?
Holding steady — currently #792 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #792 | 1,408 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #797 | 1,388 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #802 | 1,358 | ▲ up 14543 · +22533% births |
| 2010 | #15345 | 6 | ▼ down 7739 · -60% births |
| 2005 | #7606 | 15 | ▼ down 3159 · -44% births |
| 2000 | #4447 | 27 | ▼ down 2151 · -53% births |
| 1995 | #2296 | 58 | ▼ down 1509 · -77% births |
| 1990 | #787 | 257 | ▲ up 384 · +111% births |
| 1985 | #1171 | 122 | — |
The story of Phylicia
Phylicia is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1968. With 2,380 total births recorded, Phylicia remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1171 in 1985 to #792 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Phylicia in 1987:
Phylicia by decade
Phylicia peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 11 | |
| 1970s | 11 | |
| 1980s ★ | 1,202 | |
| 1990s | 962 | |
| 2000s | 159 | |
| 2010s | 35 | |
💎With 2,380 total births, Phylicia is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Phylicia?
Common
PhyPhylicPhyliciePhylicyIcia
What names sound and feel like Phylicia?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Phylicia also consider these
Common questions about the name Phylicia
What does the name Phylicia mean?
Phylicia means "blessed; happy" — a name rooted in American 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 Phylicia?
Phylicia is currently ranked #792 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Phylicia?
Phylicia originates from American tradition. American 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 Phylicia?
Phylicia is a 5-syllable name pronounced F AY1 L IY1 S IY1 AY1 EY1. 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 Phylicia?
Phylicia pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar American heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.