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At a Glance
- Meaning
- Named for the mountainous Peloponnesian region, traditionally said to be named after the mythological figure Arcas; came to symbolize an idyllic pastoral paradise
- Origin
- Greek
- Gender
- Primarily used for girls
- Pronunciation
- ar-KAY-dee-uh
Arcadia takes its name from the mountainous Peloponnesian region of Greece, traditionally said to be named after the mythological figure Arcas. Over time the place came to symbolize an idyllic pastoral paradise. You may see it claimed that Arcadia means 'beginning' or 'source', but that isn't accurate, and the name has nothing to do with the similar-sounding word 'arcade.' It's pronounced ar-KAY-dee-uh.
Meaning & Origin of Arcadia
Meaning: Named for the mountainous Peloponnesian region, traditionally said to be named after the mythological figure Arcas; came to symbolize an idyllic pastoral paradise.
Origin: Greek.
A common claim: Means 'beginning' or 'source' Actually: Arcadia doesn't mean 'beginning' or 'source' — it isn't even related to the similar-sounding word 'arcade.' The name comes from the mountainous Peloponnesian region, traditionally said to be named after the mythological figure Arcas, and came to symbolize an idyllic pastoral paradise.
Source: Wiktionary.
How to Pronounce Arcadia
ar-KAY-dee-uhIPA /ɑːrˈkeɪdiə/
Popularity of Arcadia
Arcadia has stayed rare in the U.S. Its highest rank was #3585 in 1932, when 7 babies were given the name. In 2024 it ranked #6393, with 18 babies.
Names Like Arcadia
These names have followed a similar path to Arcadia in U.S. popularity over the years.
FAQ
What does the name Arcadia mean?
Named for the mountainous Peloponnesian region, traditionally said to be named after the mythological figure Arcas; came to symbolize an idyllic pastoral paradise. (Source: Wiktionary)
How do you pronounce Arcadia?
Arcadia is pronounced ar-KAY-dee-uh (IPA: /ɑːrˈkeɪdiə/).
Is Arcadia a popular name right now?
Arcadia peaked at #3585 in 1932 and is ranked #6393 as of 2024. (U.S. Social Security Administration data, 1919–2024.)
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