Violet
Violet is a girl name of English origin meaning “Purple flower”, pronounced VY-uh-let. It ranked #13 in the United States in 2025, given to 7,546 babies, and peaked at #13 in 2025. Common nicknames: Vi, Letty, Vivi.
How popular is Violet 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 Violet mean, and where does it come from?
Violet takes its name from the delicate purple flower, which in turn comes from the Latin "viola." The flower has long been a symbol of modesty, faithfulness, and love in Western culture. In Greek mythology, violets were associated with Io, whom Zeus turned into a heifer and then created violets for her to eat. The name was first used in English-speaking countries in the 19th century during the Victorian fashion for botanical names. After a period of decline in the mid-20th century, Violet has experienced a dramatic resurgence, now ranking among the top baby names in the United States and United Kingdom.
How is Violet used around the world?
Violet is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 6+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Violet?
Famous People Named Violet
- Violet Jessop — ocean liner stewardess who survived the Titanic and Britannic sinkings
- Violet Crawley — fictional Dowager Countess in Downton Abbey
- Violet Affleck — daughter of Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner
Similar Names to Violet
If you like Violet, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Violet
Looking for names that pair well with Violet? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Violet mean?
Violet is a girl name of English origin meaning "Purple flower." Violet takes its name from the delicate purple flower, which in turn comes from the Latin "viola." The flower has long been a symbol of modesty, faithfulness, and love in Western culture.
How do you pronounce Violet?
Violet is pronounced VY-uh-let. Common variations include Violeta, Violette, Viola.
Is Violet a girl name?
Yes, Violet is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Vi, Letty, Vivi.