Lillian

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Lillian

Gender Girl
Origin English
Letters 7
Syllables 2
Pronunciation lil-ee-uhn

Lillian, which has 7 letters and 2 syllables, is a female name of English origin.

Meaning of Lillian

Blend of lily and ann

Lillian is a feminine given name of English origin, derived from the Latin word for “lily”. It is traditionally seen as a symbol of innocence, purity, and beauty.

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Meaning Blend of lily and ann
Origin English
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #54 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Common (Top 100)
Era Vintage (1900s)

Background & History of The Name Lillian

The name Lillian is a feminine given name of English origin. It is derived from the Latin name Lilium, meaning "lily," which represents purity and beauty. The popularity of the name Lillian has fluctuated over time. It gained significant popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and has remained in use ever since.

Lillian is often associated with qualities such as grace, elegance, and sophistication. It exudes a sense of femininity and charm. The name has several variant spellings, including Lilian and Lilianne, but Lillian remains the most commonly used form.

Throughout history, there have been notable individuals who have borne the name Lillian. One such example is the American silent film actress Lillian Gish, known for her roles in classics like "The Birth of a Nation" and "Intolerance." Her talent and contribution to the cinematic world have solidified the name Lillian as a symbol of grace and mastery.

In the United States, the popularity of the name Lillian reached its peak in the early 1900s, ranking among the top 20 names for baby girls. After a decline in the mid-20th century, the name has experienced a resurgence in recent years. It is often chosen by parents looking for a timeless and classic name, yet one that still feels fresh and current.

Lillian is a name that transcends generations and cultures. It is a name that carries a sense of timeless beauty and evokes images of delicacy and elegance. Whether it is used as a first name or a middle name, Lillian continues to be a popular choice for parents seeking a name that embodies both tradition and fashion.

Popularity Over Time

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

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Common nicknames and short forms for Lillian.

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