Meaning & History
Latisha is a feminine given name that originated in African American communities. It is a variant of Letitia, which itself derives from the Late Latin name Laetitia, meaning "joy, happiness". Letitia was the name of an obscure saint venerated mainly in Spain, and it was used in England during the Middle Ages, often spelled Lettice. The name was revived in the 18th century.
Etymology and History
Latisha emerged as a modern elaboration of Letitia, incorporating the popular "La-" prefix common in African American names (as seen in names like Latoya or LaShonda). The name thus combines a traditional European root with a distinctively African American style, reflecting creative naming practices within the community. The variant spelling with "-isha" also echoes other names ending in "-isha" such as Tisha (a diminutive of Letitia).
Notable Bearers
Notable individuals with the name Latisha include Taiwanese professional tennis player Latisha Chan (born 1989), American musician Latisha Hyman (born 1983), Irish activist Latisha McCrudden (born 2003 or 2004), and American bodybuilder Latisha Wilder (born 1975). In fiction, Latisha Daggert appeared in the British soap opera Emmerdale, and a character named Latisha featured in the video game ToeJam & Earl III: Mission to Earth.
Usage
Latisha is primarily used as a feminine given name within African American culture. While related forms Lettice, Lecia, Lettie, and Letty are also English diminutives of Letitia, Latisha stands out as a distinct modern coinage.
- Meaning: Variant of Letitia, from Latin laetitia "joy, happiness"
- Origin: African American, ultimately Latin via English
- Type: Feminine given name
- Usage regions: United States (African American community)
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Latisha