Meaning & History
Cicely is a medieval variant of Cecily, the English form of Cecilia, ultimately derived from the Roman family name Caecilius, which comes from Latin caecus meaning "blind." The name was popular in medieval England thanks to Saint Cecilia, a 2nd- or 3rd-century martyr and the patron saint of music. Over time, Cicely emerged as an occasional spelling variant, though it also coincides with the name of the herb sweet cicely (Myrrhis odorata).
Etymology
The root of Cicely is the Latin Caecilia, feminine form of Caecilius. The meaning "blind" may refer to a legendary ancestor who had impaired eyesight. Saint Cecilia's fame spread across Europe during the Middle Ages, and her name was adapted in many languages. In England, the vernacular form Cecily was common, and Cicely appeared as a spelling variant. The herb sweet cicely shares the name through folk etymology or phonetic resemblance, but in English usage Cicely exists as a given name independent of the plant.
Historical Context
During the medieval period, Cicely (along with Cecily) was used among the English nobility. The name became less common after the Reformation but experienced a revival in the 19th century alongside other medieval names. It remains in occasional use, particularly in the UK.
Notable Bearers
Notable historical figures include Cicely Neville (1415–1495), mother of two English kings, and Cicely Mary Barker (1895–1973), the British illustrator known for Flower Fairies.
- Meaning: blind
- Origin: Latin, via Medieval English
- Type: first name
- Usage regions: English-speaking countries
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Cicely