Valerie
Valerie is a girl name of French origin meaning “Strong, healthy”, pronounced VAL-er-ee. It ranked #127 in the United States in 2025, given to 2,221 babies, and peaked at #60 in 1959. Common nicknames: Val, Vallie, Rie.
How popular is Valerie in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Valerie mean, and where does it come from?
Valerie is the French form of Valeria, ultimately derived from the Latin "valere," meaning "to be strong" or "healthy." The name entered English usage in the medieval period but became especially fashionable in the 20th century, peaking in the 1950s and 1960s in the United States and United Kingdom. It has a soft, romantic sound that has kept it in steady, if quieter, use in recent decades. The name's enduring appearance in popular songs and film has helped preserve its recognition across generations.
How is Valerie used around the world?
Valerie is used in 2 languages worldwide, with 10+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Valerie?
Famous People Named Valerie
- Valerie Bertinelli — American actress
- Valerie Harper — American actress
- Valerie Plame — former CIA officer
Similar Names to Valerie
If you like Valerie, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Valerie
Looking for names that pair well with Valerie? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Valerie mean?
Valerie is a girl name of French origin meaning "Strong, healthy." Valerie is the French form of Valeria, ultimately derived from the Latin "valere," meaning "to be strong" or "healthy." The name entered English usage in the medieval period but became especially fashionable in the 20th century, peaking in the 1950s and 1960s in the United States and United Kingdom.
How do you pronounce Valerie?
Valerie is pronounced VAL-er-ee. Common variations include Valeria, Valery, Valeriya.
Is Valerie a girl name?
Yes, Valerie is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Val, Vallie, Rie.