Lilian

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Lilian

Gender Girl
Origin American
Letters 6
Syllables 2
Pronunciation LIL-ee-un

Lilian, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a female name of American origin.

Meaning of Lilian

Blend of lily and ann

Lilian is a feminine given name derived from the Latin name Lilium, which means "lily flower." It can also be interpreted as a combination of the names Lily and Ann, meaning "God has favored me with a lily."

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Meaning Blend of lily and ann
Origin American
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #558 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era 2000s name

Background & History of The Name Lilian

Lilian is a feminine given name with various origins and meanings. It is derived from the Latin name "Lilium," which means "lily," a symbol of purity, beauty, and innocence. The name Lilian has been gradually evolving over time, and today it is widely used in many cultures and countries across the world.

In English-speaking countries, Lilian is considered a variant of the name Lily, and it became popular during the Victorian era. It gained further prominence with the publication of Alfred Lord Tennyson's poem "The Lady of Shalott," which features a character named Lillian. The use of the letter "a" instead of "i" in the name Lilian became more prevalent in the United States as a way to differentiate it from the more popular Lily.

Lilian has also been associated with different regions and cultures. In France, for example, it originated from the Latin name Lillianus and became popular in the early 20th century. Similarly, in Germany, Lilian became a favorite name during the same period, often spelled as Lillian or Lilianna.

The name Lilian is also prominent in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, where it is often spelled "Lilian" or "Lilianne." In Igbo, one of the major Nigerian languages, the name Lilian means "God is perfect" or "God is my oath." It is commonly used and cherished in many Nigerian communities, reflecting the cultural diversity and richness of the country.

Lilian has gained popularity due to its timeless appeal and versatility. It can be found in various forms, such as Lillian, Liliana, Lilianna, Lilien, and LĂ­lia, among others. The name Lilian appeals to parents seeking a classic and elegant name with a touch of grace and femininity.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Lilian over the years.

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