Flossie is a unique and charming female given name of English origin. It is derived from the diminutive form of the Victorian era nickname Flo, which was used to shorten the names Florence or Florence.
The name Florence has its roots in Latin, where it means "flourishing" or "prosperous." This meaning comes from the Latin word "florere," which means "to flower" or "to blossom."
Flossie gained popularity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a playful and affectionate nickname for girls named Florence. It was often used within families, among close friends, or in intimate settings to convey warmth and familiarity.
Despite its historical roots, Flossie remains an uncommon name today, making it a unique choice for parents looking for something distinctive for their daughter. However, it has been used sporadically throughout the 20th century, with notable bearers including Flossie Lewis, an American jazz singer from the 1930s, and Flossie Wong, a Canadian figure skater who competed in the 1984 Winter Olympics.
In summary, Flossie is a rare and endearing female given name of English origin. Derived from the nickname Flo, which was used to shorten Florence, it carries the meaning "flourishing" or "prosperous." While it may not be widely known today, its historical roots and unique charm make it an appealing choice for those looking for a distinctive name with a touch of vintage flair.
The name Flossie reached its peak popularity in the late 19th to early 20th century, with over 463 births recorded in 1913 alone. However, it gradually declined in usage throughout the 20th century and became quite rare by the end of it, with fewer than 10 births per year from 1970 onwards, and as few as 5 or 6 births annually between 1982 and 2023. Overall, there were a total of 21,808 babies named Flossie from 1880 to 2023.