Valentine
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Valentine
Valentine, which has 9 letters and 4 syllables, is a female name of French origin.
Meaning of Valentine
Health or love
Valentine is derived from the Latin name Valentinus, which is derived from the Latin word valens meaning "strong, vigorous, powerful". It is a name that has been associated with love and romance since the Middle Ages, when it was traditionally given to those born on February 14th, the feast of Saint Valentine.
| Meaning | Health or love |
| Origin | French |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity (US) | #966 in 1917 |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1910s) |
Background & History of The Name Valentine
The name Valentine has a rich history and various cultural associations. Derived from the Latin word "valentinus," which means "strong" or "healthy," Valentine is often associated with Saint Valentine, a third-century Roman saint. Saint Valentine became known as the patron saint of love, particularly romantic love. According to legends, he was martyred on February 14, which led to the association of this date with love and the celebration of Valentine's Day.
The name Valentine is considered unisex, and it has been used as both a first name and a surname. In English-speaking countries, it is more commonly used as a masculine name, while in France and other European countries, it is often used as a feminine name. Notable bearers of the name include Valentine de Saint-Point, a French writer and feminist, and Valentine Cameron Prinsep, an English painter.
Valentine's name has also inspired various terms and concepts. For example, "valentine" is commonly used to refer to a person to whom one is romantically or affectionately attached. It is also used to describe a card or gift sent, often anonymously, on Valentine's Day to express affection. In addition, the word "valentine" can be used as a verb meaning "to send a valentine to someone."
Overall, the name Valentine carries a sense of strength and love due to its etymology and historical associations. Whether used as a first name or a surname, it has provided individuals with a strong and timeless identity throughout different cultures and periods of time.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Valentine over the years.
Similar French Baby Names
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Valentine.
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