Monica | Name Meaning & Origin

Saints Names, English Names, Latin Names

English speaking countries

Ancient name of uncertain etymology.

Monica was the name of the mother of St. Augustine, who was burn in Numidia. Thus the name might be of African origin. However, Monica is said to have been a citizen of Carthage, a city founded by the Phoenicians, so her name might be of Phoenician origin.

Alternatively, some believe it to be from the Latin 'moneo' to advise, warn, counsel; or from the Greek 'monos, monè', meaning alone, unique, solitary.

More recently, famous Monicas have included Monica Lewinsky, with whom US President Bill Clinton had an affair, the 'Friends' character Monica Geller, and actress Monica Bellucci.