Valerie is a charming and elegant name of French origin, meaning "strong" or "healthy." It was derived from the Latin word "validus," which refers to strength and power. This name gained popularity during the Middle Ages in France, often used for both males and females alike, although it has been predominantly associated with females since the 20th century.
Throughout history, Valerie has been worn by many notable individuals, such as Saint Valerie, a French martyr from the 3rd century who was beheaded for her faith. Her legend inspired the creation of the name. Other famous Valeries include American actress Valerie Bertinelli and British novelist Valerie Martin, further cementing this name's place in popular culture.
In terms of popularity, Valerie reached its peak in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, ranking among the top 50 names for girls. Although it has since declined slightly, it remains a classic choice for parents seeking a timeless yet distinctive name for their daughters.
Variations of the name Valerie include Valentina, Valeria, and Valerian, each offering unique alternatives while still maintaining the original essence of the name. Some popular nicknames associated with Valerie include Valley, Val, Valene, and Vallie, providing further flexibility in choosing how to address someone named Valerie.
Overall, Valerie is a beautiful and enduring name that evokes images of strength, grace, and sophistication. Its rich history and international appeal make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name that combines classic charm with modern allure.
The name Valrie experienced varying popularity over the years, with a notable spike between 1952 and 1964 where it peaked at 32 births in 1964. However, after 1973, its usage significantly declined, with fewer than 14 births per year on average from 1974 onwards. The total number of births with the name Valrie over this period is 909.