Frederica

Frederica is the Latinate feminine form of Frederick, a name of Old High German origin composed of the elements frid, meaning peace, and ric, meaning power or ruler, giving the overall sense of peaceful ruler. The name gained use in English and Portuguese-speaking contexts as a formal feminine counterpart to the widely popular masculine name. It was notably borne by Frederica of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, a Prussian princess of the early nineteenth century, and has appeared in various European royal families. Related forms include Frederika, Fredericka, and the shortened Freda or Rica.