Viviane is an enchanting feminine given name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman family name 'Vivennius'. This ancient name has been popular throughout history and across various cultures, adding a touch of timeless elegance to those who bear it.
The name Viviane carries a melodic and inviting sound, with its three syllables flowing smoothly into one another. The pronunciation is straightforward in most languages, as it follows the Latin pattern: /viːviːˈɑːn/ in British English, or /viːviːˈæn/ in American English.
In literature, Viviane is perhaps best known for its association with the Arthurian legend of Merlin and the Lady of the Lake. In these tales, Viviane, often identified as Nimue or Morgan le Fay, plays a significant role as a powerful enchantress who teaches Merlin his magical arts before imprisoning him in an enchanted barrow.
The name Viviane has also been popular among various royalty and nobility throughout history. For instance, Queen Marie de' Medici of France had a daughter named Laura Henriette de Viviane, born in 1607.
Today, Viviane remains a charming and distinctive choice for parents seeking a classic yet unique feminine given name. Its enchanting sound and rich historical significance make it an appealing option for those looking to bestow their child with a name of elegance and intrigue.
The name Viviane saw its popularity fluctuate over the century. It peaked in the late 40s to early 50s with a high of 13 births in 1952. However, it had periods of low popularity as well, such as from the mid-80s to early 90s where there were fewer than 8 births per year consistently. Since then, its popularity has been steadily increasing, reaching a recent high of 29 births in 2023. Overall, there have been 956 recorded births with the name Viviane over this period.