Lillian is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "lilium," which means "lily." The lily flower has been revered throughout history for its beauty and purity, making it a popular choice for naming girls.
The name Lillian became popular during the late Victorian era in England, where it was often used as a variation of the name Lily. It gained further popularity in the United States during the early 20th century, with notable figures such as actress Lillian Gish and First Lady Lillian Roosevelt contributing to its rise in popularity.
Throughout history, people named Lillian have been known for their grace, elegance, and refinement, much like the lily flower from which their name is derived. However, it's important to note that the traits associated with a person's name are not determined by the name itself but rather by the individual's personality, experiences, and upbringing.
Today, Lillian continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a classic yet unique feminine given name. It has also inspired several variations and diminutives, such as Lily, Liliana, Lilianna, and Lilly. Overall, the name Lillian is beloved for its beautiful meaning, rich history, and enduring appeal.
The name Lillian has been popular among parents in the United States over the past century and a half, with a fluctuating number of births each year.
In the late 19th to early 20th centuries, the popularity of the name Lillian grew steadily. From just 672 births in 1880, it peaked at 9546 births in 1915 and maintained high figures until the mid-1920s.
However, after reaching a peak of 9546 births in 1915, the popularity of Lillian began to decline. By the late 1930s, it had dropped significantly, with only 2552 births recorded in 1939.
The name continued to experience ups and downs throughout the mid-20th century, reaching a low point of just 399 births in 1978. But by the late 1980s, Lillian began to regain some popularity, with around 650 births each year.
In recent years, the name Lillian has seen a resurgence in popularity among American parents. Between 2000 and 2023, there were over 467,000 recorded births of girls named Lillian in the United States alone. This demonstrates that while trends may come and go, classic names like Lillian can endure and even regain popularity generations later.
Overall, these statistics show how the name Lillian has been an enduring choice for parents across different eras, with its popularity ebbing and flowing over time but ultimately remaining a beloved option in the United States.