More than 21,000 people today have this Latin first name with imperial origins, which is in the top 200 most given female first names in France in 2025.
A Roman heritage steeped in history
The origin of this first name dates back to Roman Antiquity and has its roots in the Latin “faustus”, meaning “happy” or “fortunate”. This etymology carries with it a promise of happiness and prosperity that spans the centuries. The first name immediately evokes two emblematic figures of the Roman Empire: Faustina the Elder, empress and wife of Antoninus the Pious, who lived in the 2nd century, and her daughter Faustina the Younger, who married the philosopher emperor Marcus Aurelius. Both were deified after their death, testimony to their importance in Roman society. This double historical reference gives the first name a nobility and a timeless dimension particularly sought after by today’s parents.
The variants of the first name testify to its linguistic richness: Fausta, Fauste and Faustina offer variations which allow everyone to make this historical name their own. The name day is celebrated on January 15, a date which marks the recognition of this unique identity in the calendar.
A strong character profile
According to characterology studies presented in L’Officiel des Prénoms, people with this first name are distinguished by marked personality traits. Resolution is at the forefront of their qualities, accompanied by a natural courage which allows them to face the challenges of existence. Dynamism constitutes another pillar of their temperament, manifesting itself in communicative energy and a capacity to undertake.
Intellectual curiosity is also a notable characteristic, pushing these personalities to explore, question and understand the world around them. This thirst for knowledge is accompanied by a developed analytical mind, allowing a thoughtful and methodical approach to situations. These traits paint the portrait of determined women, capable of combining action and reflection in their life journey.
The return to favor of retro first names
The current success of this first name is part of an underlying trend running through French society: the return of old and retro first names. After several decades dominated by modern or Anglo-Saxon first names, parents are now turning to classic onomastic heritage, in search of authenticity and character. This assumed nostalgia for the sounds of yesteryear testifies to a desire to reconnect with cultural roots and history.
Ancient, medieval or Belle Époque-inspired first names are experiencing remarkable popularity. They offer an alternative to overly common first names while conveying a certain timeless elegance. This resurrection of the names of yesteryear is not limited to a simple fashion effect: it reflects a desire to transmit a heritage, to create a link between generations and to assert a singular identity in a standardized world. With 21,000 people wearing it in France and its presence in the top 200 female first names in 2025, this Latin first name perfectly illustrates this rebirth of names full of history and meaning.