Angélica is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Angelica. The name Angelica is derived from the later Latin name deriving its meaning via the Latin vocabulary word angelicus meaning “angelic,” which in turn goes back to the Greek word ἄγγελος (angelos), meaning “messenger.” Etymology and History The name Angelica entered literary consciousness through the epic poems Orlando Innamorato by Matteo Boiardo (1483) and Orlando Furioso by Ludovico Ariosto (1532). In these works, Angelica is a beautiful pagan princess from Cathay (China), who becomes the object of desire for the knights Orlando and Rinaldo. Her name and character were so captivating that the name began to be used as a given name from the 18th century onward. In Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries, Angélica (pronounced ahn-HEH-lee-ka in Spanish, ahn-ZHEH-lee-ka in Portuguese) has been in regular use, helped both by the literary tradition and by the religious association of “angelic” qualities. Cultural Significance In Latin American and Iberian cultures, Angélica carries a certain timeless elegance and spiritual resonance. It remains a classic female given name, known in Portuguese through homophones only in the adjective “angélica” (feminine of “angelic”). The masculine counterpart is Angélico, though far less common. Meaning: “Angelic” (ultimately from Greek angelos, “messenger”) Origin: Spanish and Portuguese form of Angelica Type: Given name Usage regions: Spanish-speaking world, Brazil, Portugal Related forms: Angelica (Romanian, English), Anjelica (English), Angélique (French), Angelika (Polish, German)