Pacifica

/pəˈsɪfɪkə/ noun

Definition

A city name (notably in California) or referring to peaceful, Pacific-related themes. Derived from the same root as Pacific Ocean.

Etymology

From Latin 'pacificus' meaning 'peace-making', from 'pax' (peace) and 'facere' (to make). The Pacific Ocean was named by Magellan for its calm appearance, and places named Pacifica evoke this peaceful imagery.

Kelly Says

Magellan's naming of the Pacific as the 'peaceful sea' was beautifully ironic - he encountered it during unusually calm weather, not knowing he'd found Earth's largest and often most turbulent ocean. Cities named Pacifica often embrace this hopeful vision of tranquility.

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