Lillie is a charming and unique feminine given name of French origin. It is derived from the French word "lilas," which means "lilac." The lilac flower is known for its beautiful purple color and sweet fragrance, making it a popular choice for a girl's name.
The name Lillie has been used in English-speaking countries since the 19th century, but it gained popularity during the Victorian era. During this time, many people were inspired by French culture and language, which contributed to the rise of French-derived names like Lillie.
Historically, the name Lillie has been associated with several notable figures. For example, Lillie Langtry was a famous British actress and mistress of King Edward VII in the late 19th century. Additionally, the name was used by members of the French royal family, such as Marie Adélaïde de France, who was known as "Lillie" to her close friends.
In literature, the name Lillie appears in various works, including Charlotte Brontë's novel "Jane Eyre," where it is the given name of one of the characters. The name has also been used in more recent books and movies, such as the young adult novel "The Luxe" by Anna Godbersen.
Today, Lillie remains a popular choice for parents looking for a unique and elegant name for their daughter. Its French origins add a touch of sophistication and charm to the name, while its meaning brings to mind images of beautiful flowers and pleasant fragrances. Overall, Lillie is a lovely and distinctive feminine given name with a rich history and an appealing meaning.
The name Lillie has been a part of the United States' baby naming scene for over a century, with the first recorded births occurring in the late 19th century. From 1880 to 1969, there were a total of 873 babies named Lillie born in the U.S.
The name's popularity fluctuated throughout this period. In its early years, it maintained an average of about five births per year from 1880 to 1894. However, between 1895 and 1920, there was a notable increase in popularity, with the number of annual births peaking at 26 in 1921.
Interestingly, after this peak, the name's popularity began to decline steadily. By the 1930s, the number of annual Lillie births had decreased significantly, with an average of about 17 births per year from 1933 to 1940. This downward trend continued into the post-WWII era, with only nine or fewer births occurring annually between 1946 and 1951.
The name saw a brief resurgence in popularity during the late 1950s and early 1960s, with seven to eight births per year recorded from 1956 to 1962. However, this uptick was short-lived, as only five babies named Lillie were born annually between 1962 and 1969.
Despite these fluctuations in popularity, the name Lillie has maintained a consistent presence in the U.S., with at least one baby being named Lillie every year since records began. This longevity is a testament to the enduring appeal of this unique and historic moniker.