Lillian

Fact-checked by Jaime Babiera

1. Lillian name meaning and origin

The name Lillian originated from the Latin word 'lilium' that translates to flower Lily. It became a popular given name for girls in the 19th century. The prominence of this name had also become notable in the English-speaking countries, although it began to decline in the succeeding years. The lily flower, which forms the name's etymological root, has long symbolized purity, innocence, and beauty in Western culture.

The name experienced fluctuating popularity throughout the 20th century, with notable resurgences in the 1990s and succeeding years. At some point, it suggests that the classic and feminine names with historical resonance begin to gain traction once again.

Lillian

References:

Lillian Name Meaning and Lillian Family History at FamilySearch

2. Lillian name popularity

Girl

Boy

in 2023

from 2022

Popularity of Lillian

United States

United Kingdom

Lillian is a predominantly feminine name with roots in both the United States and the United Kingdom. While specific ranking data isn't available in our dataset, the name has maintained a presence in both countries over time. Lillian is often associated with elegance and grace, derived from the Latin word "lilium" meaning lily.

In American and British culture, Lillian has endured as a classic choice for girls, occasionally experiencing surges in popularity as naming trends cycle. The name also appears in male naming records in the United States, though this usage is considerably less common. Lillian offers versatility through nicknames like Lily, Lil, or Lilly, contributing to its enduring appeal.

3. Lillian in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

The name Lilian has been used in various forms of fiction, both in classic literature and present media. A list of some prominent characters bearing the name in fictional works is listed below.

Literature:

Lillian Rearden

She is a resentful character who stands in direct opposition to her husband's principles in the novel, “ Atlas Shrugged ”.

Lillian

A character in Anna Todd's “ After” novel series. She provides wisdom to the male protagonist, Hardin, and encourages him to treat the main female character better.

Lilian Una Singer

She is the protagonist of Kate Grenville's “ Lilian's Story”, who is a free-spirited eccentric who defiantly lives her life on her own terms.

Lilian York

A character in the Korean web novel and webtoon series “ Who Made Me a Princess” , written by Plutus and illustrated by Spoon.

Lillian Bowman

From the novel “ It Happened One Autumn”. She is a wealthy, headstrong American heiress who clashes with and ultimately falls for Lord Westcliff.

Films and Television:

Queen Lillian

The mother of Princess Fiona and wife of King Harold in the animated fantasy films “ Shrek 2” and “ Shrek the Third” .

Lillian Hall

A character in the 2024 film “ The Great Lillian Hall” . She is a theater actress in her later career who receives a difficult diagnosis and must reevaluate her life.

Lillian House

A neighbor whose sudden and suspicious death prompts the protagonists to launch their own investigation, from the film “ Manhattan Murder Mystery” .

Lillian Donovan

She is from the comedy film “ Bridesmaids” , the longtime best friend of Annie, and announces her engagement to her wealthy boyfriend, Doug.

Lillian Kaushtupper

Played by Carol Kane, she is a proud, eccentric, and quick-witted landlady on the Netflix series “ Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” .

Lillian "Lil" DeVille

The twin sister of Phil DeVille in the Nickelodeon animated series “ Rugrats” and its spin-off “ All Grown Up!” .

Lillian "Lily" Aldrin

The main character in the sitcom “ How I Met Your Mother” . She is the wife of Marshall Eriksen and a close friend of Ted Mosby.

Lillian "Lily" van der Woodsen

She is a socialite, art collector, and philanthropist who is the mother of Serena and Eric van der Woodsen in the TV series “ Gossip Girl” .

Lillian Luthor

The mother of Lex and Lena Luthor and the primary antagonist in the superhero series “ Supergirl” .

Lillian Bellacourt

A self-centered and status-obsessed sister in the Comedy Central period sitcom “ Another Period” .

Lillian Walsh

The main character in the series “ When Hope Calls” , a spin-off of “ When Calls the Heart” . She is a young woman who runs an orphanage with her sister.

Video Games:

Lilian Weaver

In the survival horror game “ Wick” , Lillian Weaver is a ghostly antagonist and the youngest of the Weaver family.

Lilian

A non-player character (NPC) in “ The Outer Worlds” who appears during the side quest "Journey Into Smoke".

Lilian

A fan-created character on the “ Genshin Impact” Fanon Wiki. She is portrayed as an introverted Dendro user who is an expert on plants.

Lilian Webster

A protagonist of the fan-made game “ GameCatch! Pretty Cure” , where she works at a restaurant on Mars.

4. Celebrities with the Name Lillian

Aside from fiction, the name Lilian has also been carried by real-life figures in entertainment, sports, and music. From actors to athletes, these celebrities have helped keep the name visible in popular culture.

Historical Figures:

Lilian Baylis

A renowned English theatrical producer and manager. She managed the Old Vic and Sadler's Wells theaters in London.

Lilian Baylis

Image source: Wikipedia

Lillian Gish

An American film and stage actress, director, and writer whose acting career spanned 75 years and was known as the "First Lady of the Screen".

Image source: Wikipedia

Lillian Hellman

An American playwright known for works such as “The Children's Hour” and “The Little Foxes”.

Lillian Hellman

Image source: Wikipedia

Lillian Disney

An American artist and the widow of Walt Disney. She is credited with suggesting the name Mickey Mouse for her husband's cartoon character.

Lillian Disney

Image source: Wikipedia

Lilian Bland

An Anglo-Irish journalist and pioneer aviator. In 1910, she became the first woman in Great Britain and Ireland to design, build, and fly her own aircraft.

Lillian Moller Gilbreth

An American psychologist, industrial engineer, and management expert. She and her husband promoted efficiency in business and at home.

Lilian Ngoyi

A South African anti-apartheid activist and a key leader in the 1956 Women's March on the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

Lillian Wald

An American nurse, humanitarian activist, and author. She is considered the founder of American community nursing.

Contemporary Celebrities:

Lilián Annette Garcia

An American ring announcer, singer, and podcaster who is well known for her work with WWE.

Lilian Hak

A Dutch vocalist, songwriter, composer, and producer known for her work in cinematic pop, jazz, and electronic music.

Lilian Esoro

A Nigerian actress and media personality who gained recognition for her role as Nurse Abigail in the soap opera “Clinic Matters”.

Lilian Bach

A Nigerian actress and former model who became a prominent figure in Nollywood during the 1990s.

Lilian Thuram

A retired French professional footballer and one of France's most decorated players, known for his work as a defender.

Lilian de Carvalho Monteiro

A political risk analyst and public figure who married former tennis champion Boris Becker in 2024.

5. Variations and nicknames of Lillian

The classic name Lillian has evolved across cultures and generations, spawning numerous elegant variants. In French-speaking regions, the spelling Liliane adds a touch of continental sophistication, while Romanian often prefers Lilian (without the second 'l'). The Italian and Spanish Liliana both add a melodic quality. Some parents choose the simplified modern spelling Liliann, while others opt for the more elaborate Lilianna. Victorian-inspired Lylian or Liliane. These variations demonstrate how this beautiful name has been adapted worldwide while maintaining its connection to the lily flower, a symbol of purity and beauty.

Beyond formal variants, Lillian boasts a treasury of affectionate nicknames. The most common diminutive is Lily, which has become a popular standalone name. Close friends might use the playful Lili, Lily, or the truncated Lil. More distinctive options include Lillie, Annie, and Lia. Some Lillians prefer Lillibet and Lilith as more elaborated options. Family members might use endearments like Lillypad and Lil’ Love. In professional settings, the sophisticated Lila can serve as more mature alternatives while maintaining a connection to the original name. This versatility allows each Lillian to find a nickname that suits her personality and preference at different stages of life.

6. Best name combinations with Lillian

names that pair well with Lillian:

Lillian Rose
Lillian Grace
Lillian Claire
Lillian Sophia
Lillian Elizabeth
Lillian Marie
Lillian Victoria
Lillian Mae
Lillian Kate
Lillian Celeste
Lillian Elise
Lillian Juliet
Lillian Camille
Lillian Adele
Lillian Josephine
Lillian Genevieve
Lillian Estelle
Lillian Skye
Lillian Quinn
Lillian Theodora
Eleanora Lillian
Adelaide Lillian
Vivienne Lillian
Penelope Lillian
Alice Lillian
Abigail Lillian
Audrey Lillian
Felicity Lillian
Amelia Lillian
Olivia Lillian
Seraphina Lillian
Gloria Lillian
Evangeline Lillian
Josephine Lillian
Margaret Lillian
Kira Lillian
Rosalind Lillian
Nicole Lillian
Eloise Lillian

7. Numerology of Lillian name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

6
L(3) + I(9) + L(3) + L(3) + I(9) + A(1) + N(5) = 33 = 3+3 = 6

The Destiny number 6 signifies responsibility, nurturing, and balance. People with a 6 Destiny number are natural caretakers who excel in careers that help others, such as teaching, counseling, or healthcare. They're devoted to maintaining harmony within the family. In relationships, they're loyal and supportive partners who sometimes struggle to put the needs of their partner over their own.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire):

1
Vowels: I(9) + I(9) + A(1) = 19 = 1+9 = 10 = 1+0 = 1

With a Soul Urge of 1, Lillian is driven by independence, leadership, and ambition. Deep down, she desires to forge her own path and make a unique impact. In career, she's motivated by positions that revolve around autonomy and innovation. In relationships, she values partners who respect her independence, although it might lead to conflicts sometimes.

Personality Number:

5
Consonants: L(3) + L(3) + L(3) + N(5) = 14 = 1+4 = 5

The Personality Number 5 presents Lillian as adaptable, fun, and freedom-loving. Others see her as someone who embraces change and get through the challenges very well. In professional settings, you give energy and positivity that inspire the people in your team. In relationships, your adventurous personality makes people love being around you.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

8. Names similar to Lillian

Like Lillian ? What about:

Natalya

Deanna

Abigail

Carina

Gideon

Bonita

Adeline

Benita

Adelyn

Danielle

Adrian

Gianna

Elijah

Damien

Delia

Dominic

Benjamin

Benedict

Amadis

Genesis

Common sibling names

Sisters

Romina

Caroline

Adelyn

Bellamy

Genesis

Adalyn

Jocelyn

Valerie

Danielle

Elena

Rosemary

Lilian

Adeline

Addison

Gianna

Vivian

Beatrice

Delaney

Renata

Abigail

Brothers

Marcelo

Ignacio

Gabriel

Addison

Anthony

Maximus

Maximo

Damien

Gideon

Santino

Adrian

Bellamy

Dominic

Augustine

Dominick

Julien

Benjamin

Elijah

Elias

Julian

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Lillian

1. Lillian name meaning and origin

References:

2. Lillian name popularity

3. Lillian in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

4. Celebrities with the Name Lillian

5. Variations and nicknames of Lillian

6. Best name combinations with Lillian

names that pair well with Lillian:

7. Numerology of Lillian name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire):

Personality Number:

8. Names similar to Lillian

Like Lillian ? What about:

Common sibling names

Find the Perfect Name for Your Baby

Search by name

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Baby name lists including Lillian

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