Meaning & History
Angelique is the Dutch form of Angélique, itself the French name derived ultimately from the Latin angelicus meaning “angelic,” from Greek ἄγγελος (angelos), meaning “messenger.” In English, the equivalent form is Angelica. The spelling variation Angelique (without the acute accent) is also used in other languages, notably in Dutch-speaking contexts.
Etymology and History
The root name Angelica was popularized in the Renaissance through the epic poems Orlando Innamorato (1483) by Matteo Boiardo and Orlando Furioso (1532) by Ludovico Ariosto, where Angelica is a beautiful princess beloved by both Orlando and Rinaldo. The name was adopted as a given name in the 18th century across Europe, including into French (Angélique) and Dutch (Angelique). Both forms share the same basic root and are essentially variant transliterations of the same Christian and classical name. In Dutch, the diminutive Lieke is also derived from Angelique.
Notable Bearers
Notable women named Angelique include Angélique Arnaud, a 19th-century French writer; Angelique Kerber, a German professional tennis player who won three Grand Slam singles titles; and Angélique Kidjo, a Grammy-winning Beninese singer-songwriter. Other notable figures include Angélique du Coudray, a pioneering 18th-century French midwife, and Angelique Boyer, a French-born Mexican actress and model. The Dutch show jumper Angelique Hoorn further illustrates the name‘s use in the Netherlands.
- Meaning: angelic, messenger
- Origin: Greek angelos, via Latin and French
- Type: Given name (feminine)
- Usage Regions: Dutch, French, English
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Angélique (given name)