Lillian
Lily flower, purity — a girl name of English origin
Popularity of Lillian in the United States
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Meaning & Origin of Lillian
Lillian is an elaborated form of Lily, ultimately derived from the Latin "lilium," the name of the flower that symbolizes purity and innocence. The name first appeared in England in the 16th century and was likely created as a blend of the flower name Lily and the popular suffix "-an." It was enormously popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, evoking the grace of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. After a period of decline, Lillian has made a strong comeback in the 21st century, appreciated by parents who want a classic, feminine name with vintage charm.
Lillian Around the World
Lillian is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 7+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
Nicknames for Lillian
Famous People Named Lillian
- Lillian Gish — American actress and pioneer of early cinema
- Lillian Hellman — American playwright and screenwriter
- Lillian Wald — American nurse and founder of public health nursing
Similar Names to Lillian
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Sibling Name Ideas for Lillian
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Lillian mean?
Lillian is a girl name of English origin meaning "Lily flower, purity." Lillian is an elaborated form of Lily, ultimately derived from the Latin "lilium," the name of the flower that symbolizes purity and innocence. The name first appeared in England in the 16th century and was likely created as a blend of the flower name Lily and the popular suffix "-an.
How do you pronounce Lillian?
Lillian is pronounced LIL-ee-un. Common variations include Lilian, Liliane, Lillianne.
Is Lillian a girl name?
Yes, Lillian is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Lily, Lil, Lillie, Lili.
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