laetitia

Laetitia is a feminine given name derived from the Latin noun laetitia, meaning happiness, joy, or gladness. In classical Latin the term denotes a state of cheer and is attested as a personification of joy in some late antique writings. In Christian Latin, laetitia is used as a virtue referring to spiritual joy.

As a given name, Laetitia has been used in various European languages. English-speaking communities often render the name as Letitia or Leticia; Italian and Spanish-speaking communities commonly use Letizia and Leticia, respectively. The form Laetitia itself is more typical in contexts that reference Latin, scholarly usage, or certain regional traditions.

Notable people with the name include French model and actress Laetitia Casta; French musician Laetitia Sadier; and French politician Laetitia Avia. The name appears across other fields and may be chosen for its classical resonance or positive meaning.

In religious and cultural contexts, laetitia appears as a term for rejoicing and positive sentiment, and is used in onomastic studies and Latin language resources as an example of a Latin noun that has become a personal name.