Cecilia
Cecilia is a girl name of Latin origin meaning “Blind, heavenly”, pronounced seh-SEEL-yuh. It ranked #108 in the United States in 2025, given to 2,506 babies, and peaked at #108 in 2025. Common nicknames: CeCe, Ceci, Lia.
How popular is Cecilia in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Cecilia mean, and where does it come from?
Cecilia derives from the Latin family name Caecilius, which is thought to come from "caecus" meaning "blind." Saint Cecilia is the patron saint of musicians, and according to legend, she sang to God in her heart during her forced marriage, leading to her association with music. The name was popular among early Christians and remained common throughout medieval Europe. Simon and Garfunkel's 1970 song "Cecilia" brought the name fresh cultural relevance. Cecilia has experienced a steady revival in recent years, celebrated for its melodic quality and rich historical depth.
How is Cecilia used around the world?
Cecilia is used in 4 languages worldwide, with 20+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Cecilia?
Famous People Named Cecilia
- Cecilia Bartoli — Italian opera singer
- Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin — British-American astronomer who discovered stellar composition
- Saint Cecilia — patron saint of musicians
Similar Names to Cecilia
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Sibling Name Ideas for Cecilia
Looking for names that pair well with Cecilia? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Cecilia mean?
Cecilia is a girl name of Latin origin meaning "Blind, heavenly." Cecilia derives from the Latin family name Caecilius, which is thought to come from "caecus" meaning "blind." Saint Cecilia is the patron saint of musicians, and according to legend, she sang to God in her heart during her forced marriage, leading to her association with music.
How do you pronounce Cecilia?
Cecilia is pronounced seh-SEEL-yuh. Common variations include Cecelia, Celia, Cicely.
Is Cecilia a girl name?
Yes, Cecilia is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include CeCe, Ceci, Lia, Sissy.