Lillyan is a unique and beautiful name with a fascinating history. It is of Welsh origin, derived from the ancient Celtic word "lili," which means "lily." The lily flower has long been associated with purity, beauty, and grace in many cultures around the world.
In Wales, Lillyan was often used as a female given name during the medieval period. However, it did not gain widespread popularity until the 19th century when it began to be used more frequently throughout Europe and beyond. Today, Lillyan is recognized as a unisex name, although it is still more commonly used for females.
One of the most famous historical figures with the name Lillyan was Lily Langtry, a British actress and socialite who lived during the late 19th century. She was known for her beauty and charm, as well as her numerous love affairs with prominent men of the time. Despite her scandalous reputation, Langtry remained a popular figure in Victorian society, and her name has since become synonymous with elegance and allure.
In recent years, Lillyan has experienced something of a resurgence in popularity among parents looking for unique and meaningful names for their children. While it may not be as commonly used as some other names, those who choose Lillyan for their child are likely doing so because they appreciate its beautiful meaning and rich historical significance.
Overall, Lillyan is a name that combines the timeless elegance of its floral inspiration with the strength and uniqueness associated with its Celtic origins. Whether you're choosing a name for your own child or simply appreciate beautiful names with interesting histories, Lillyan is certainly one to consider.
The name Lillyan has had a fluctuating popularity over the years in the United States. The earliest record of its usage dates back to 1906 with only five births that year. It saw a slight increase in popularity between 1908 and 1915, with the highest number of births being sixteen in 1915.
However, Lillyan's popularity declined significantly from 1922 onwards, with only seven or fewer births recorded each year until 1938. There was a brief resurgence between 1996 and 2000, during which time the number of births increased annually from five to thirty-three.
Since 2000, Lillyan has seen consistent popularity in the United States, with over one hundred births each year until 2015. The highest number of Lillyan births recorded was in 2009, with a total of 193 births. Since then, its popularity has steadily decreased, with only twenty-two births recorded in 2023.
In total, there have been 2398 babies named Lillyan born in the United States since 1906. Despite its fluctuating popularity over the years, Lillyan remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents looking for something different.