Veronica
GirlLatin, Greek· “true image; or bringer of victory”
- Meaning
- true image; or bringer of victory (origin disputed)
- Origin
- Latin, Greek
- Pronunciation
- vur-AH-nih-kuh
- Syllables
- 4
- US rank 2025
- #427
- US babies 2025
- 730
- Best rank
- #68 (1976)
- Peak year
- 1980
Meaning and origin of Veronica
Veronica is often said to mean “true image; or bringer of victory”; the origin is uncertain, though it is usually linked to Latin and Greek roots.
Veronica has a debated origin. It is often explained as a Latin form of Berenice, the Greek Pherenike, bringer of victory. Medieval writers also connected it with the Latin vera icon, true image, because Saint Veronica, according to tradition, wiped the face of Jesus on the way to the cross, and his likeness remained on her veil. The name was long used in Catholic countries, and the flowering plant veronica, or speedwell, also shares it. Veronica feels classic and a little glamorous. Ronnie, Nica and Vera are possible nicknames.
Popularity over time
Veronica has been given to babies in the United States since at least 1880, the first year of Social Security records. It has ranked in the top 1,000 in 146 different years. Its best national rank was #68 in 1976, and the most babies received it in 1980, when 4,378 were named Veronica. In 2025, 730 babies were named Veronica, and it ranked #427 nationally. Its use has been fairly steady over the past decade.
Its national rank moved from #192 in 1920, #197 in 1950, #70 in 1980, #143 in 2000, #295 in 2010, and #427 in 2025. Of the 223,775 US girls named Veronica since records began, 18% were born in the 1980s, its biggest decade. The 1970s come next, with 38,787 babies. Since 2010, 13,973 more have been named Veronica.
Other girls' names that peaked around the same time include Mindy, Katrina, Brandi, Monique, and Alison.
Where it is most popular (2025)
In 2025, Veronica ranked highest in Minnesota, Montana, and Kansas.
| State | Rank there | Babies |
|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | #249 | 23 |
| Montana | #258 | 5 |
| Kansas | #284 | 12 |
| Connecticut | #295 | 11 |
| Wisconsin | #309 | 18 |
Gender, sound and spelling
In the US it is used almost only for girls.
Veronica is usually pronounced vur-AH-nih-kuh, with four syllables. It has eight letters, starts with V and ends in “-ca”.
Middle names for Veronica
A few middle names that flow with Veronica: each avoids a matching first letter, a rhyme and a vowel clash where the names meet.
Sibling names for Veronica
Similar names
Lists that include Veronica
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Veronica mean?
Veronica is often said to mean “true image; or bringer of victory”; the origin is uncertain, though it is usually linked to Latin and Greek roots.
What is the origin of the name Veronica?
Veronica has Latin and Greek roots. Veronica has a debated origin.
Is Veronica a popular name?
Yes. Veronica ranked #427 in the US in 2025, which makes it in the top 1,000.
Is Veronica a boy or girl name?
Veronica is mainly a girl's name. In the US it is used almost only for girls.
How do you pronounce Veronica?
Veronica is usually pronounced vur-AH-nih-kuh. Stressed syllables are in capital letters.
Popularity figures come from US Social Security card applications (names given to at least five babies in a year, 1880 to 2025). How we source names and meanings