Victorian baby names are not as tough as the time period. They were flowery, pleasant, and feminine. Trades, family names, and religious views inspired masculine names. Most of these names, such as Elizabeth and William, are still popular today, while a few remain obscure.
Top hats, puffed sleeves, crinoline, petticoats, horse carriages, and big celebrations are all images that come to mind when thinking of the Victorian era. The lovely names of this period, on the other hand, have stayed with us to this day.
So, if you are looking for a cute vintage Victorian baby name, you’ve come to the right place. Here is a compilation of some of the most adorable yet rare Victorian baby names to help you make a choice.
Key Pointers
- Victorian names have a touch of classic beauty.
- Girl names are inspired by flowers and feminine traits.
- Boy names are inspired by strong qualities and nobility.
- A few common unisex Victorian names are Francis, Avery, Elias, and Jules.
- Victorian baby names were also inspired by Biblical characters.
Most Beautiful Victorian Girl Names
Victorian girl names are sophisticated and elegant, representing the culture of the Victorian period. While many of these names have fallen out of usage today, they have retained their beauty. Read on to learn more about them.
1. Ada
This sophisticated name refers to Ada Lovelace, the daughter of Lord Byron. Ada means ‘adornment’.
2. Adelaide
Adelaide, meaning ‘noble’, was used in high numbers amongst the aristocratic families.
3. Adelia
This moniker, meaning ‘noble’, sounds like a combination of Adele and Adelaide. But unfortunately, it has not been used since the Victorian times.
4. Agatha
An ultimate Victorian name, But Agatha Heterodyne makes it swashbuckling. Agatha means ‘good woman’.
Trivia5. Alexandra
Alexandra is a royal Victorian name of the 19th century. It’s reported that every royal family had at least one Alexandra. This name means ‘defender’.
6. Alice
This moniker dominated the Social Security Administration list for over a century and hovered in one of the top 10 name list for decades. Alice means ‘nobility’.
7. Alma
This lovely Victorian name has different meanings in different languages. It means ‘loving’ in Swedish, ‘apple’ in Persian, and ‘good’ in Celtic’.
8. Anne
Anne, in all its variations, including Anna or Annie, was regularly used as the first name. It means ‘grace’.
9. Arabella
Royal name Arabella is taken from the Latin name Orabilis and means ‘yielding to prayer’.
10. Audrey
This lovely name has a timeless elegance and sophistication of Audrey Hepburn. Audrey means ‘nobility and strength’.
11. Bertha
Bertha is a German origin name and means ‘bright’.
12. Beryl
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This gem of a name, meaning ‘gemstone’, became popular for the first time in the 19th century.
13. Blanche
This French name, meaning ‘white’ has a sophisticated Victorian flair. It originated as a nickname for pale women and then went on to be associated with purity.
14. Briar
A fantasy inspired name for your little princess, Briar Rose was the original name of the Sleeping Beauty in the folklore. Briar means ‘thorny shrub’.
15. Catherine
Just like today, even in the Victorian era, Catherine was used in different forms including Katherine and Kathryn. But the original form was most dominant. Catherine means ‘pure’.
16. Clara
This moniker, meaning ‘clear and bright’ evokes the sweetness and elegance of the Victorian era.
17. Clementine
If you wish for a Victorian name that’s bold, frilly, and has the perfect twang, pick Clementine. It means ‘mild and merciful’.
18. Cora
This name is now associated with Lady Cora Grantham in “Downton Abbey”. Cora was made famous by American writer James Fennimore in his novel “Last of the Mohicans”. It means ‘maiden’.
19. Della
In the 1800s, Della was popularly used as a short form for names like Adelle, Adelaide, and Adeline. It means ‘noble’.
20. Ebba
Ebba could make an uncommon alternative to Emma and Ella. This Germanic saint’s name means ‘strong’.
21. Edith
Edith, meaning ‘prosperous in war’, was incredibly popular Victorian baby name for girls. No wonder it was chosen as the name of a female character in “Downton Abbey”.
22. Effie
This short form of Euphemia has become popular again, thanks to the “Hunger Games” series. Effie means ‘well spoken’.
23. Eleanor
Honestly, we’re surprised at the lack of use of this beautiful name. We think it’s time to turn the clock to this pretty Victorian girl name. Eleanor means ‘bright’.
24. Eliza
Bessie was not the only nickname for Elizabeth. Even Eliza was on the scene, and it became so popular it became a bonafide name in itself. It means ‘pledged to God’.
25. Elizabeth
Just like Ann, even Elizabeth was used in all its forms in the Victorian period, though the long form was the favorite. Elizabeth means ‘pledged to God’.
26. Elsie
This Scottish name is experiencing a major revival. It peaked in popularity in the late 19th century and was among the top 1890s names, reaching #31. Elsie means ‘my god is bountiful’.
27. Emily
Emily, meaning ‘industrious’, was a beloved with authors like Boccaccio and Chaucer. Its namesake is Emily Bronte.
28. Emma
Emma, meaning ‘universal’, was popular amongst the upper-class Victorian families.
Did you know?29. Esther
This name, meaning ‘star’, combines the dignity of the Biblical name with a rhythmic sound with an ‘er’ ending.
30. Evie
This moniker has returned with mother names Evelyn and Eve. This most popular Victorian nickname in England means ‘life’ or ‘lively’.
31. Fannie
This name hints at the Victorian era’s obsession with names ending with ‘e’. Fannie means ‘free’.
32. Flora
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The moniker of the Roman Goddess of spring and flowers, was a top 100 names in the 1880s and 1890s. It means ‘flower’.
33. Florence
This Victorian name is totally artsy. It is the name of the city at the heart of Italy and has a rock ballad after its name. Florence means ‘to flower’.
34. Frances
It’s reported that Frances, meaning ‘French woman’, was prominent in the Marriage Announcements in the 1820s.
35. Harriet
While this Victorian name is still receiving love in the United Kingdom, Americans are shy about this feminine form of Henry. You can shorten it to Hattie for a true-blue vintage charmer. Harriet means ‘estate ruler’.
36. Hazel
This cute Victorian baby name hit its peak in 1901, taking the 23rd spot. Having fallen off the charts in 1975, Hazel is on the rise again. Hazel mean ‘hazelnut tree’.
37. Henrietta
Before Harriet, charming and elegant Henrietta took the spotlight. Henrietta means ‘home ruler’.
38. Ida
Ida, the German name meaning ‘hardworking and diligent’, can be lengthened to the demure Idabelle or Idabel.
39. Isabella
Isabella or Isabel saw an increase in usage towards the end of 1850s. It means ‘devoted to God’.
40. Jane
‘Plain Jane’ was not relegated to the middle spot in the Victorian Era. It kept repeatedly popping throughout the centuries. Jane means ‘God has been gracious’.
41. Josephine
Josephine is one of those classic names that must be revived. It was last popular in 1884 when it reached the 45th spot. Josephine means ‘God increases’.
42. Josie
One of the most widely accepted Victorian nicknames for Josephine, Josie is more popular now that it has ever been. It means ‘may Jehovah add’.
43. Kitty
This pet form of Katherine predated all the Katies and Kathys in the 18th century. It means ‘pure’.
44. Lilian
Lilian, meaning ‘lily’, evokes the purity and innocence of the Victorian era.
45. Lily
This floral moniker is riding high in the name charts at the moment. Meaning ‘pure’, both the name and flower Lily are a symbol of innocence.
46. Lottie
A dainty Victorian favorite, Lottie, the short form of Charlotte, means ‘free man’.
47. Lucy
In the 1850s, Lucy was seen in regular frequency, often on its own. It means ‘light’.
48. Luella
This vintage name, meaning ‘warrior’ is patiently waiting for you to consider it. It is trendy and comes with cute nickname options like Ella or Lulu.
49. Mabel
After a long hiatus from the top 1000 list, Mabel is slowly making to the charts. Mabel means ‘lovable’.
50. Maggie
Maggie, the short form of Margaret, was a favorite nickname in the Victorian era. This delicate name means ‘pearl’.
51. Maida
In Southern Italy, baby girls were often named after great battles. That’s how Maida came into the scene. It means ‘virgin’.
52. Maisie
Maisie, the Scottish form of names Marjorie and Margaret, has the potential of being the next Daisy. Maisie means ‘pearl’.
53. Marjorie
A perfect name for the twinkle of your eyes, Marjorie is a variation of Margaret and means ‘child of light’.
54. Martha
After being ignored for long, Martha is now marching its way up the list. This Biblical name means ‘lady’.
55. Mary
Mary, meaning ‘beloved or bitter’, was the ‘it’ name of the Victorian period, particularly in the end of the 1820s.
56. Millie
One of the chic and vintage girl names that sounds thoroughly modern, it ranks at 231 in the UK and at the #717 US spot. Millie means ‘free born or noble’.
57. Minnie
Long before Minnie Mouse came into the picture, Minnie was one of the fastest rising names in the 19thcentury. Minnie is one of the disney baby Victorian names. Minnie means ‘rebellion’.
58. Nellie
The Victorian song ‘Nellie Bly’ made it a household name in the 19th century. Nellie means ’shining light’.
59. Nora
Nora is a no-nonsense name with a feminine ring. It means ‘light’.
60. Ottilie
The charming feminine version of Otto, meaning ‘riches’, was super popular during the Victorian times. With attractive nicknames like Lottie and Tillie, Ottilie deserves more time in the spotlight.
61. Rayne
This Victorian royal name is a fit for royalty and rightly so as it means ‘queen’ in a number of languages. Apt for your little princess, isn’t it?
62. Rosie
Image: IStock
Floral names would never go out of style. Rosie means ‘rose’.
63. Ruth
This short, but powerful, name means ‘friend’.
64. Sophronia
Move away Sophia/Sophie. It’s time for this elaborate Victorian name to rule the charts. Sophronia means ‘prudent’.
65. Sylvia
This moniker, meaning ‘wood’ brings to mind a forest filled with whispering trees.
66. Tillie
This name, currently at the 90th spot in the UK, is a short form of Matilda. It took off when Heath Ledger picked it for his daughter. Tillie means ‘battle mighty’.
67. Victoria
This moniker is ladylike and dignified, just like Queen Victoria. This eternally beautiful name means ‘victory’.
68. Vinnie
This diminutive of Lavinia is still very much in use for girls. Vinnie means ‘conqueror’. Do not confuse it with Winnie.
69. Viola
This charmer from Shakespeare’s ‘Twelfth Night’ is derived from the classic name Violet, meaning the same.
70. Violet
This floral name is perfect for a spring baby. And we’re sure even your little one won’t feel shy about wearing this name. Violet means ‘purple’.
71. Winnie
Most of us had forgotten this name until Jimmy Fallon chose it for his daughter. Winnie means ‘fair one’.
72. Zadie
If you want an old-fashioned Victorian name for your daughter, add Zadie to your list right away! This name was at its peak in the 1880s and has its namesake in Zadie Smith, an English author.
Most Beautiful Victorian Boy Names
Victorian boy names are traditional and timeless. These names echo with nobility and refinement. While some may be deemed old-fashioned by today’s standards, they still command the same respect they did in the 19th century.
73. Abraham
Meaning ‘father of multitudes’, Abraham got recognition from the US President, Abraham Lincoln.
74. Alfred
British Prince Alfred and poet Lord Alfred Tennyson made this name popular during the Victorian era. It means ‘elf ruler’.
75. Archie
This short form of stuffy name Archibald took off in the era when even the boy’s name ended with the ‘e’ sound. Archie means ‘bold and true’.
76. Arnold
Coming from Germanic elements, meaning ‘eagle power’, Arnold would make an awesome name for your son.
Trivia77. Arthur
This formal name reigned on the 14th spot in the 1880s, but slid down soon after. It’s taking steps back again, thanks to celebs who named their son Arthur recently.
78. Augustus
A name that sounds fit on both a toddler and a Roman emperor. This dignified name also comes with an approachable and friendly nickname Gus. Augustus means ‘great’.
79. Baxter
This prim and proper British name, meaning ‘baker’, made a strong comeback after featuring in the movie “Anchorman’.
80. Bernard
Image: IStock
This sturdy name, meaning ‘strong bear’, can be softened to the sweet and friendly Bernie or Bern.
81. Bert
In the Victorian era, Bert was often used as a short form for Robert, Albert, and Bertram. But today, it stands strong as a stand alone name. Bert means ‘bright’.
82. Bram
Honor the creator of the “Dracula” series by naming your son Bram after the author Bram Stoker. Bram means ‘father of multitude’.
83. Cassius
Cassius is an undeniably cool Victorian name. It means ‘empty’.
84. Charley
To keep it fun and informal, pick Charley instead of Charles or Charlie. Or use it as a nickname for Charles. Charley means ‘man’.
85. Clarence
This baby boy name and even its namesakes are filled with Victorian charm and vigor, whether you take the American attorney Clarence Darrow or the lifesaving guardian from “It’s a Wonderful Life”.
86. Claude
This delightfully short name with Roman roots brings to mind Emperor Claudius. Claude means ‘from the Roman clan’.
87. Clifford
In the 1800s, the term Clifford was used to describe a ford near a slide. It later transformed into a name.
88. Douglas
Douglas, the name of one of the most powerful clans in Scotland, was given as a first name for the first time in the 16th century. It’s a dark Victorian baby mean which means ‘dark stream’.
89. Edgar
Edgar Degas was an extremely influential figure during the Victorian era. So was Edgar Allen Poe. This name means ‘fortunate and powerful’.
90. Edison
This name, with its namesake Thomas Edison, embodies the spirit of invention. A distinctly masculine name, Edison means ‘son of Edie’.
91. Edmund
One of the top 100 names of the Victorian era, you can shorten it to Eddie to make it sound more friendly. Edmund means ‘prosperity’.
92. Edwin
After fading from use after the Norman conquest, Edwin returned in the 19th century, via Dickens’ novel, “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”. Edwin means ‘rich friend’.
93. Elmer
This Teutonic name, meaning ‘awe-inspiring’, was once quite widespread in America during the Victorian Era. It means ‘noble or famous’.
94. Enoch
This strong and masculine name, meaning ‘dedicated’ would be a nice Victorian name for your little one.
95. Ernest
An ideal name for a boy destined for literary greatness, it does not just nod to Ernest Hemingway, but is also associated with a character from Oscar Wilde’s play. Ernest means ‘earnest’.
96. Everett
This upbeat name was a rage in England in 1800s. It means ‘wild boar’.
97. Fletcher
This strong and sturdy name sounds like a combination of Flynn and Archer. It will remind some of you of the “Fletch” film series, where Fletcher was the last name of the lead. It means ‘arrow maker’.
98. Floyd
This Celtic name, meaning ‘gray’ became popular because of the novel “Aurora Floyd” by Mary Elizabeth Braddon in the year 1863.
99. Frank
In America, Frank was the eighth most popular name in the 1880s. Now, since the number has fallen in recent times, there won’t be many Franks on the playground. Franks means ‘free man’.
100. Franklin
Franklin is a cool and refined name, meaning ‘free landholder’.
101. Gilbert
This name of the 12th century English saint was introduced to England by the Normans. It means ‘shining pledge’.
102. Grover
A Victorian presidential name (Grover Cleveland), in the present times, Grover is associated with “Sesame Street”. It means ‘grove of trees’.
103. Harold
Harold, meaning ‘ruler’, would be a bold and strong choice for boys of today. You can use Harry for the nickname.
104. Harvey
A perfect example of a wonderfully vintage name. It brings to mind Harvey Dent from the “Batman” comic series. Harvey means ‘battle worthy’.
105. Henry
This classic name, meaning ‘estate ruler’, keeps moving up and down the list. It’s sweet and sounds less old school than Walter and Harold.
106. Hugh
After the early Americans had brought this name from Europe, its popularity began to wane. Thanks to Hugh Grant, this vintage name is back on the list. Huge means ‘intellect’.
107. Hugo
Hugo sounds Victorian, slightly eccentric, but dauntless. It means ‘intelligent’.
108. Ives
Ives is a variant of the saintly name Yves and means ‘eve’. It is creative, stately, and totally uncommon.
109. Ivor
Ivor, meaning ‘bow warrior’, has always been popular in Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Cornwall. So pick it if you want to pay tribute to your Gaelic heritage.
110. Jack
Jack with its hard ‘k’ sound was at its peaks in the Victorian era. Meaning ‘man’ Jack is currently in the 46thspot.
111. Jerome
This Greek Victorain english name, meaning ‘Hieronymus’ was beloved in Victorian England. A famous bearer of this name is Jerome Kern.
112. Jules
This Victorian baby boy name, meaning ‘youthful’, is bold and antique, but elegant. And it sounds like ‘joules’ which is the unit of energy.
113. Larkin
Larkin may sound modern, but the last time it entered the top 1000 list was in the 1880s. Larkin means ‘fierce or rough’.
114. Leo
Image: IStock
Thanks to Russian author Leo Tolstoy for bringing fame to this name during the Victorian Era, Leo means ‘lion’.
115. Louis
It seems that celebs are in love with this Victorian name. Sandra Bullock recently picked it for her son. Louis means ‘famous warrior’.
116. Luther
A name that always conjures images of the American civil rights leader, Martin Luther King, Jr. It means ‘renowned warrior’. What a fitting name!
117. Martin
A Victorian name that’s enjoying fame in countries like Austria, Spain, and Chile, Martin means ‘warlike’.
118. Merritt
Merritt is a cute English surname-turned-first name, meaning ‘worthy’. It’d be a fitting twist on Everett.
119. Oliver
This classic Victorian baby name has significant literary clout in Dickens’ “Oliver Twist”. Oliver means ‘olive tree’.
120. Oscar
This award-winning name was adored by the parents of the Victorian era. Oscar means ‘God’s spear’.
121. Otto
This one has a slew of literary and historical figures sporting it. It means ‘wealthy’.
122. Phineas
This moniker, with its quirky manliness, seems like it was made in the Victorian era. Phineas means ‘oracle’.
123. Raymond
With a name like Raymond, your son is sure to be ‘a complete man’. This Victorian baby name means ‘wise protector’.
124. Silas
This serious and sophisticated name has the literary association in “Silas Marner”. It means ‘from the forest’.
125. Sterling
This name has an air of the affluent poise, which one needs to carry the silver-topped walking stick and top hat. Sterling means ‘easterner’.
126. Tesla
Since the interest in Serbian names has been rising, Tesla is seen popping in various places. It means ‘of the axe’.
127. Thaddeus
Thaddeus, meaning ‘wise’, was a firm favorite in the 18th and 19th centuries.
128. Theodore
In the late 19th century, Theodore was one of the top 40s names. It means ‘gift of God’.
129. Victor
The name may be ancient in origin, but it became commonplace in the 19th century. Meaning ‘winner’, this name would give a solid start to your child’s life.
130. Warren
A tough and rugged name from a dainty era, Warren means ‘park-keeper’.
131. Watson
We must say that detective Sherlock Holmes’ partner makes this name irresistible. Watson means ‘son of Walter’.
132. Wellington
This British surname name harkens to the time of Duke of Wellington. As a bonus, you get Wells for the nickname. Wellington means ‘from the wealthy state’.
133. Willie
We’re sure you’ll find this name in your family tree going back to the 1800s. It started as a nickname for William and which means ‘resolute protector’.
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How have Victorian baby names influenced modern naming trends for babies?
Usually, Victorian names are long and with significant meaning and history. So variations and diminutives of many of these names are now used as modern names for babies. For example, the popular modern name Tina is a diminutive of the Victorian name Clementina.
2. What are some factors that influenced the choice of Victorian baby names?
Parents may choose a Victorian name for their baby depending on their personal choice, family history, the gender of the baby, suitability with the last name, popularity, meaning, tradition, and any famous person related to the name.
3. Can you provide some examples of Victorian baby names that are gender-neutral?
Some gender-neutral Victorian names are Morgan, Taylor, Francis, Avery, Elias, Jules, and Synder. While some of these names might be popular as a particular gender name, there have been records of usage of these names for the other gender too.
4. What are some common middle names used with Victorian baby names?
Names like Elizabeth, William, Anne, Rose, Thomas, and Grace can be used as both a forename and a middle name.
5. Can you suggest some Victorian baby names that have religious or spiritual significance?
Names, including James, Jacob, Benjamin, Daniel, David, Elizabeth, Lydia, Josephine, and Esther are some Victorian names derived from the Bible and have religious and spiritual significance.
6. What makes Victorian baby names unique compared to modern names?
Victorian names stand out from modern names based on their simplicity and elegance. These names retain their original forms, while modern names are mostly derivatives or diminutives. While modern names have unique spellings to make them stand out, Victorian names are short and easy to pronounce. Also, most Victorian names are Biblical or virtue names, while modern ones have moved on from such themes.
Victorian baby names have not lost their charm. They are as popular today as they were in the Victorian era. So, if you are captivated by the idea of elegant hats, corsets, and large dresses, it would be a good idea to try a Victorian-era-inspired name for your baby. If you’re wondering what those names sound like, the list provided here will take you through some of the best ones that will raise your curiosity and interest. So, explore some classic names such as Agatha, Della, Hazel, and Isabella, and choose the one that excites you the most.
Infographic: Victorian Names For Girls And Boys With Meanings
The Victorian era paints a vivid image of elegance and nobility. And just like the people, their names are also classy. So if you too are fascinated by this vintage period, this list of famous Victorian names may intrigue you. Check them out and pick a name for your little one.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Illustration: Mesmerizing Victorian Baby Names For Girls And Boys
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Celebrate the elegance of the Victorian Era with this exquisite list of Victorian baby names that will surely leave you reminiscent of a wonderful era.
References
- Popular Baby Names (ssa.gov)
https://www.ssa.gov/OACT/babynames/
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