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Lucia

♀ Girl

Pronounced loo-SEE-uh /luːˈsiː.ə/High

Meaning: Light — from Latin lux/lucis (light), via Lucia, feminine of LuciusHigh

In 30 seconds: A luminous Latin name simply meaning 'light.' Saint Lucy's feast day on December 13 — once the longest night — made her the bringer of light, and her name has carried that radiance across centuries.
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Origin HighLatin
MeaningLight — from Latin lux/lucis (light), via Lucia, feminine of Lucius
Peak year2017
Total births (all-time)≈ 41,721

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 201718802017

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Lucia is the feminine form of the Latin Lucius, from lux (light). Saint Lucia of Syracuse (c. 283–304 AD) was a Christian martyr whose feast falls on December 13, once the winter solstice in the Julian calendar.

Lucia has been popular across Southern Europe for centuries. In the United States it has been climbing strongly in the 21st century, now ranking in the top 100 girls' names.

Did you know? In Scandinavia, the feast of Saint Lucia (December 13) is celebrated with processions of children wearing candles on their heads — one of the most beautiful Christmas traditions in the world.

Variations

LucyLucieLucianaLucía

Nicknames

LuLuciCia

Famous Bearers

  • ★Saint Lucia of Syracuse (c. 283–304 AD)
    Christian martyr whose feast on December 13 is celebrated with candlelight processions across Scandinavia.

If you like Lucia…

Clara— Latin classic with the same bright meaning (bright/clear) and vintage revival
Aurora— Latin light/dawn name with the same radiant celestial quality
Natalia— Latin holiday saint's name with the same warm three-syllable Latinate grace
Eleanor— vintage classic with the same timeless three-syllable European elegance

Frequently Asked

What does the name Lucia mean?

Lucia comes from the Latin lux (light), meaning 'light' or 'she who brings light.'

How do you pronounce Lucia?

It is said loo-SEE-uh /luːˈsiː.ə/ — three syllables, stress on the second.

Is Lucia a boy or girl name?

Lucia is used exclusively as a girl's name; Lucius is the male form.

How popular is Lucia?

Lucia has been climbing steadily in the U.S. and is now among the top 100 girls' names.