When people say ‘Victorian Era,’ they’re referring to the period of Queen Victoria’s reign over the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, which lasted from June 20, 1837 to her death on January 22, 1901.
It was a period of great power and wealth for the United Kingdom as it expanded its empire across the globe – including establishing colonies and exerting influence over parts of Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.
Not only did the Victorian Era see the rise of factories and urbanization, but it saw the rise of the middle class and was marked by a variety of scientific and technological innovations – such as the steam engine.
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Today, the Victorian Era acts as a major source of inspiration for many – and it does so in a wide range of ways. Of course, one of those ways is with the many Victorian girl names we see being used by parents.
Victorian girl names have a classic and elegant feel, which appeals to parents looking for names that are both beautiful and enduring. If that sounds like you, then don’t worry – we’ve got some ideas for you!
Classic Victorian Girl Names Worth Considering for a Daughter
The Victorian era is romanticized for its simplicity, decorum, and social refinement – and names from this era evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era, appealing to those who appreciate history and tradition.
Not only that, but Victorian girl names have a pleasant phonetic structure, often featuring soft consonants and vowels that create a melodious sound. And, let’s be honest, there’s a reason they’re so popular!
With that said, you have to admit that there are certain names that, when you hear them, have that Victorian sound – and we’re going to list 10 of those Victorian girl names below, so let’s get started!
10. Adelaide
Origin: Germanic
Derivation: The name Gwendoline is derived from the Old High German name ‘Adalheidis,’ which is composed of two elements – ‘adal,’ meaning ‘noble,’ and ‘heid,’ meaning ‘kind,’ ‘sort,’ or ‘type.
Meaning: Noble Kind, Noble Type
9. Agatha
Origin: Greek
Derivation: The name Agatha is derived from the Greek word ‘agathos,’ meaning ‘good’ or ‘kind.’
Meaning: Good, Kind
8. Amelia
Origin: Germanic
Derivation: The name Amelia is derived from the Germanic word ‘amal,’ meaning ‘work’ or ‘industriousness.’
Meaning: Industrious, Striving
7. Blanche
Origin: French
Derivation: the name Blanche is derived from the Old French word ‘blanc’ or ‘blanche,’ meaning ‘white’ or ‘fair.’
Meaning: White, Fair
6. Eleanor
Origin: Greek, Provençal
Derivation: The name Eleanor is derived from the Provençal name ‘Aliénor,’ which may be a form of the Greek name ‘Helen’ (Helene), meaning ‘light’ or ‘torch.’
Meaning: Light, Shining Light, Torch
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5. Eloise
Origin: French/Germanic
Derivation: The name Eloise is derived from the Old French name ‘Héloïse,’ which in turn comes from the Germanic name ‘Helewidis,’ which means ‘healthy’ and ‘wide.’
Meaning: Healthy, Wide
4. Gwendoline
Origin: Welsh
Derivation: The name Gwendoline is derived from the Welsh elements ‘gwen,’ meaning ‘white,’ ‘fair,’ or ‘blessed,’ and ‘dolen,’ meaning ‘ring’ or ‘bow.’
Meaning: Blessed Ring, White Bow
3. Henrietta
Origin: Germanic
Derivation: The name Henrietta is the female form of Henry, which is derived frmo the Germanic name ‘Heinrich’ – composed of ‘heim,’ meaning ‘home’ or ‘estate,’ and ‘ric,’ meaning ‘ruler’ or ‘power.’
Meaning: Home Ruler, Ruler of the Household
2. Lilian
Origin: Latin
Derivation: The name Lilian is derived from the Latin word ‘lilium,’ which means ‘lily.’
Meaning: Lily
1. Violet
Origin: Latin
Derivation: The name Violet is derived from the Latin word ‘viola,’ which means ‘violet’ (the flower).
Meaning: Violet, Flower
Victorian Girl Names Inspired By Queen Victoria’s Daughters
Queen Victoria, born Alexandrina Victoria on May 24, 1819, was the Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland for 63 years between June 20, 1837 until her death on January 22, 1901.
She was, and still is, the second longest-reigning British monarch, surpassed only by Queen Elizabeth II.
In 1840, Victoria married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. They had nine children together, who married into various European royal families – earning her the nickname “the grandmother of Europe.”
Let’s take a look at five Victorian girl names inspired by her five daughters – starting with Victoria.
5. Victoria
Origin: Latin
Derivation: The name Victoria is derived from the Latin word ‘victoria,’ which means ‘victory.’
Meaning: Victory, Conqueror
Who Is Princess Victoria? Victoria, Princess Royal (1840-1901) was the eldest daughter of Queen Victoria. She was married to German Emperor Frederick III, becoming the German Empress and Queen of Prussia. Known for her intelligence and strong political opinions, she influenced German politics and was the mother of Kaiser Wilhelm II.
4. Alice
Origin: Germanic
Derivation: The name Alice is derived from the Old High German name ‘Adalheidis,’ shortened ‘Adalheid,’ and then to ‘Alice.’
Meaning: Noble, Noble Type
Who Is Princess Alice? Alice, Princess of the United Kingdom (1843-1878), was the second oldest daughter of Queen Victoria. She married Louis IV, Grand Duke of Hesse, becoming Grand Duchess of Hesse. She was noted for her charity work and compassion. Her descendants include many European royals, such as Tsarina Alexandra of Russia.
3. Helena
Origin: Greek
Derivation: The name Helena is derived from the Greek name ‘Helene,’ which means ‘light’ or ‘torch.’
Meaning: Light, Torch
Who Is Princess Helena? Helena, Princess Christian of Schleswig-Holstein (1846-1923) was the third oldest daughter of Queen Victoria. She married Prince Christian of Schleswig-Holstein. Known for her charitable work and involvement in nursing and women’s organizations. She was a close companion to her mother and stayed active in royal duties.
2. Louise
Origin: Germanic
Derivation: The name Louise is the feminine form of Louis, derived from the Germanic name ‘Chlodowig,’ which is composed of ‘hlud,’ meaning ‘fame,’ and ‘wig,’ meaning ‘warrior.’
Meaning: Famous Warrior
Who Is Princess Louise? Louise, Duchess of Argyll (1848-1939) was the second youngest daughter of Queen Victoria. She married John Campbell, 9th Duke of Argyll, making her Duchess of Argyll. An accomplished artist and sculptor, she was also a strong advocate for the arts and women’s education.
1. Beatrice
Origin: Latin
Derivation: The name Beatrice is derived from the Latin name ‘Beatrix,’ which comes from ‘beatus,’ meaning ‘blessed,’ and ‘viatrix,’ meaning ‘voyager’ or ‘traveler.’
Meaning: Blessed, Voyager, Traveler
Who Is Princess Beatrice? Beatrice, Princess Henry of Battenberg (1857-1944) was the youngest daughter of Queen Victoria. She married Prince Henry of Battenberg. She remained a close confidante and secretary to her mother, Queen Victoria. Known for her loyalty and dedication to her family, she continued to serve the royal family throughout her life.
Victorian Girl Names Inspired By Famous Victorian Writers
The Victorian Era was marked by a significant expansion in readership and the proliferation of printed materials, making literature and other writings accessible to a broader audience more than ever before.
Not only that, but the establishment of public libraries and reading rooms provided access to books and periodicals – further encouraging the habit of reading among people of all classes during this period.
And, of course, Victorian writers made a name for themselves, publishing some of the most important and influential books of all time – including Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (which was published in 1865).
With that said, let’s take a look at some Victorian girl names inspired by famous Victorian writers.
10. Charlotte
Origin: French
Derivation: The name Charlotte is the feminine diminutive form of ‘Charles,’ derived from the Germanic name ‘Karl,’ which means ‘man’ or ‘free man.’
Meaning: Free Woman
Who Is Charlotte Brontë? Charlotte Brontë (1816–1855) was an English novelist and poet, and the third of six children in the Brontë family. She initially published her works under the pseudonym Currer Bell to conceal her gender. Her major novels include “Jane Eyre,” “Shirley,” and “Villette.”
9. Emily
Origin: Latin
Derivation: The name Emily is derived from the Roman family name ‘Aemilius,’ which comes from the Latin word ‘aemulus,’ which means ‘rival’ or ‘industrious.’
Meaning: Rival, Industrious
Who Is Emily Brontë? Emily Brontë (1818-1848) was an English novelist and poet, and was one of the three famous Brontë sisters. She’s best known for her only novel, “Wuthering Heights,” which is considered a classic of English literature, and wrote under the pseudonym Ellis Bell.
8. Anne
Origin: Hebrew
Derivation: The name Anne is derived from the Hebrew name ‘Hannah,’ which means ‘grace’ or ‘favor.’
Meaning: Grace, Favor
Who Is Anne Brontë? Anne Brontë (1820-1849) was an English novelist and poet, the youngest of the Brontë sisters. She wrote under the pseudonym Acton Bell. Her novels are noted for their realistic portrayal of women’s lives. She died of tuberculosis at the age of 29.
7. Elizabeth
Origin: Hebrew
Derivation: The name Elizabeth is derived from the Hebrew name ‘Elisheva.’
Meaning: My God is an Oath, Pledged to God
Who Is Elizabeth Gaskell? Elizabeth Gaskell (1810-1865) was an English novelist and biographer. She wrote social novels that explored class and gender issues in Victorian England. Gaskell was also a friend and biographer of Charlotte Brontë. Her works remain influential for their detailed portrayal of Victorian society.
6. Mary
Origin: Hebrew
Derivation: The name Mary is derived from the Hebrew name ‘Miriam,’ which means ‘beloved.’
Meaning: Beloved, Bitter
Who Is Mary Ann Evans? Mary Ann Evans (1819-1880), known by her pen name George Eliot, was an English novelist, poet, and journalist. She wrote under a male pseudonym to ensure her works were taken seriously. Her novels are known for their realism, psychological insight, and detailed social observation.
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5. Christina
Origin: Latin
Derivation: The name Christina is the feminine form of ‘Christianus,’ which means ‘follower of Christ.’
Meaning: Follower of Christ
Who Is Christina Rossetti? Christina Rossetti (1830-1894) was an English poet known for her romantic, devotional, and children’s poems. Her work “Goblin Market” is particularly famous. Rossetti’s poetry is celebrated for its vivid imagery and emotional depth.
4. Dinah
Origin: Hebrew
Derivation: The name Dinah is derived from the Hebrew name ‘Dinah,’ and likely originates from the Old Testament.
Meaning: Judged, Vindicated
Who Is Dinah Maria Craik? Dinah Maria Craik (1826–1887) was an English novelist and poet, best known for her novel “John Halifax, Gentleman,” which depicts the life of a self-made man. Her works often focused on themes of domestic life and women’s experiences.
3. Ouida
Origin: Literary
Derivation: The name Ouida is a pseudonym of the English author Maria Louise Ramé, inspired by the way she pronounced her given name ‘Louisa’ as a child.
Meaning: (no traditional meaning)
Who Is Ouida? Ouida was the pen name of English novelist Maria Louise Ramé (1839–1908). Known for her romantic and adventure novels, she gained popularity in the late 19th century. Her works often featured melodramatic plots and exotic settings.
2. Margaret
Origin: Greek
Derivation: The name Margaret is derived from the Greek word ‘margaritēs,’ which means ‘pearl.’
Meaning: Pearl
Who Is Margaret Oliphant? Margaret Oliphant (1828-1897) was a Scottish novelist and historical writer. She was a prolific author, producing over 100 works, including novels, biographies, and historical texts. Her writing often focused on domestic realism and social commentary.
1. Amy
Origin: Latin
Derivation: The name Amy is derived from the Old French name ‘Amee,’ which comes from the Latin ‘amatus.’
Meaning: Beloved
Who Is Amy Levy? Amy Levy (1861–1889) was an English essayist, poet, and novelist. She was one of the first Jewish women to attend Cambridge University. Her works addressed themes of feminism, Judaism, and social reform. Levy’s life was tragically cut short by suicide at the age of 27.
Victorian Girl Names Inspired By Famous Victorian Painters
It wouldn’t be right to talk about some of the most famous Victorian writers without also discussing some of the Victorian painters who helped define the Victorian Era – so that’s exactly what we’re going to do!
In fact, several artistic movements emerged during this period – including the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood – reflecting the diverse interests and styles, and contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the time.
Founded in 1848, Pre-Raphaelites sought to return to the detail, vibrant colors, and complex compositions of early Renaissance art before Raphael – often featuring themes from literature, mythology, and religion.
With that said, let’s take a look at some classy Victorian girl names inspired by famous Victorian painters!
10. Evelyn
Origin: English
Derivation: The name Evelyn was originally a surname derived from the given name ‘Aveline,’ which itself comes from the Germanic name ‘Ava.’
Meaning: Desired, Wished for Child
Who Is Evelyn De Morgan? Evelyn De Morgan (1855–1919) was an English painter associated with the Pre-Raphaelite movement. Her works often depicted allegorical and mythological themes, characterized by vibrant colors and detailed, symbolic imagery. She was also a strong advocate for social reform and women’s rights.
9. Marie
Origin: Hebrew, French
Derivation: The name Marie is the French form of ‘Mary,’ derived from the Hebrew name ‘Miriam.’
Meaning: Beloved, Bitter
Who Is Marie Spartali Stillman? Marie Spartali Stillman (1844–1927) was an English painter of Greek descent and a prominent member of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. Her paintings often featured romantic and mythological subjects, noted for their delicate beauty and attention to detail. She was also a model for other Pre-Raphaelite artists.
8. Emma
Origin: Germanic
Derivation: The name Emma is derived from the Germanic word ‘ermen,’ meaning ‘whole’ or ‘universal.’
Meaning: Whole, Universal
Who Is Emma Sandys? Emma Sandys (1843–1877) was an English painter associated with the Pre-Raphaelite movement. She is known for her portraits and depictions of women, often incorporating rich colors and intricate details. Despite her short career, her works are celebrated for their beauty and refinement.
7. Joanna
Origin: Hebrew
Derivation: The name Joanna is derived from the Hebrew name ‘Yochanan,’ meaning ‘God is gracious.’
Meaning: God is Gracious
Who Is Joanna Mary Boyce? Joanna Mary Boyce (1831–1861) was an English painter associated with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. Her works included portraits and genre scenes, characterized by their meticulous detail and expressive quality. She died young, but her contributions to art were highly regarded by her contemporaries.
6. Annie
Origin: Hebrew
Derivation: The name Hebrew is a diminutive form of ‘Anne,’ which is derived from the Hebrew name ‘Hannah.’
Meaning: Grace, Favor
Who Is Annie Louisa Swynnerton? Annie Louisa Swynnerton (1844–1933) was an English painter known for her portraits, allegorical subjects, and landscapes. She was the first woman to be elected as an Associate of the Royal Academy of Arts. Her works are noted for their vibrant color and dynamic composition.
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5. Helen
Origin: Greek
Derivation: The name Helen is derived from the Greek name ‘Helene.’
Meaning: Light, Torch
Who Is Helen Allingham? Helen Allingham (1848–1926) was an English watercolourist and illustrator. She is best known for her idyllic rural scenes and charming depictions of English country life. Her works were highly popular and she was the first woman to be admitted to the Royal Watercolour Society.
4. Kate
Origin: Greek, English
Derivation: The name Kate is a diminutive form of ‘Katherine,’ which is derived from the Greek name ‘Aikaterine.’
Meaning: Pure
Who Is Kate Greenaway? Kate Greenaway (1846–1901) was an English illustrator and writer, famous for her charming and whimsical illustrations of children and idyllic rural scenes. Her style had a significant influence on children’s book illustrations, and she remains a beloved figure in children’s literature.
3. Louisa
Origin: Germanic
Derivation: The name Louisa is the feminine form of ‘Louis,’ which is derived from the Germanic name ‘Chlodowig,’ which is composed of the elements ‘hlud,’ meaning ‘fame,’ and ‘wig,’ meaning ‘warrior.’
Meaning: Famous Warrior
Who Is Louisa Starr? Louisa Starr (1845–1909), later Louisa Starr Canziani, was an English painter associated with the Pre-Raphaelite movement. She is known for her historical and religious paintings, as well as portraits. Her work often featured rich colors and detailed compositions.
2. Jane
Origin: Hebrew, English
Derivation: The name Jane is the English form of the Hebrew name ‘Yochanan,’ meaning ‘God is gracious.’
Meaning: God is Gracious
Who Is Jane Benham Hay? Jane Benham Hay (1829–1904) was an English painter associated with the Pre-Raphaelite movement. She is known for her detailed and vibrant historical and genre paintings. Her works often explored themes of female beauty and domestic life.
1. Edith
Origin: Old English
Derivation: The name Edith is derived from the Old English words ‘ēad,’ meaning ‘wealth’ or ‘fortune,’ and ‘gyth,’ meaning ‘war’ or ‘battle.’
Meaning: Posperous in War, Wealthy in Battle
Who Is Edith Hayllar? Edith Hayllar (1860–1948) was an English painter known for her genre scenes, particularly those depicting domestic life and leisure activities. She was part of a family of artists and her works are celebrated for their meticulous detail and charming subject matter.
Victorian Girl Names Inspired By Other Famous Women From the Victorian Era
Queen Victoria was obviously the most famous woman during the Victorian Era. And while the female writers and painters listed above heavily influenced this period of time, they weren’t the only ones.
Amidst the industrial revolution, societal reforms, and expanding British Empire, several remarkable women emerged, leaving indelible marks on history and forging their names among some of the greats.
Figures like Florence Nightingale revolutionized nursing and public health, while social reformers such as Elizabeth Fry and Josephine Butler fought tirelessly for prison reform, women’s rights, and so much more.
These influential women not only challenged the status quo but also paved the way for future generations – which continues to inspire and resonate to this day. They deserve just as much praise as anyone else.
With that said, here are some of our favorite Victorian girl names inspired by influential Victorian women.
10. Florence
Origin: Germanic, Hebrew
Derivation: The name Florence is derived from the Latin word ‘florens’ or ‘florentius.’
Meaning: Flourishing, Prosperous
Who Is Florence Nightingale? Florence Nightingale (1820–1910) was an English social reformer and the founder of modern nursing. She became famous for her work during the Crimean War, where she improved the sanitary conditions of the wounded soldiers. Her efforts laid the foundation for professional nursing and healthcare reform.
9. Ada
Origin: Germanic, Hebrew
Derivation: The name Ada is derived from the Germanic element ‘adal,’ meaning ‘noble,’ or from the Hebrew name ‘Adah.’
Meaning: Noble, Adornment
Who Is Ada Lovelace? Ada Lovelace (1815–1852) was an English mathematician and writer, best known for her work on Charles Babbage’s early mechanical general-purpose computer, the Analytical Engine. She is considered the first computer programmer, having written what is recognized as the first algorithm intended to be processed by a machine.
8. Emmeline
Origin: Germanic
Derivation: The name Emmeline is derived from the Germanic name ‘Amelina,’ a diminutive form of names beginning with ‘Amal,’ meaning ‘work.’
Meaning: Industrious, Striving, Hard-Working
Who Is Emmeline Pankhurst? Emmeline Pankhurst (1858–1928) was a British political activist and leader of the British suffragette movement. She founded the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU), which used militant tactics to fight for women’s suffrage in the United Kingdom. Her efforts were instrumental in securing women’s right to vote.
7. Jospehine
Origin: Hebrew, French
Derivation: The name Jospehine is the feminine form of Joseph, which is derived from the Hebrew name ‘Yosef.’
Meaning: God Will Increase
Who Is Josephine Butler? Josephine Butler (1828–1906) was an English feminist and social reformer. She campaigned for the rights of women, particularly focusing on the repeal of the Contagious Diseases Acts, which unfairly targeted prostitutes. Butler also worked to improve education and employment opportunities for women.
6. Octavia
Origin: Latin
Derivation: The name Octavia is derived from the Latin word ‘octavus,’ which means ‘eighth.’
Meaning: Eighth Child
Who Is Octavia Hill? Octavia Hill (1838–1912) was an English social reformer and one of the founders of the National Trust. She worked to improve housing for the working poor, believing in the importance of clean, green spaces for health and well-being. Her efforts contributed to the development of social housing and urban planning.
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5. Millicent
Origin: Germanic
Derivation: The name Millicent is derived from the Old German name ‘Amalasuintha,’ which is composed of ‘amal,’ meaning ‘work,’ and ‘swinth,’ meaning ‘strength.’
Meaning: Strong in Work, Industrious
Who Is Millicent Fawcett? Millicent Fawcett (1847–1929) was a British feminist, intellectual, and suffragist. She led the National Union of Women’s Suffrage Societies (NUWSS), advocating for women’s right to vote through non-violent means. Fawcett played a crucial role in the eventual granting of women’s suffrage in the UK.
4. Isabella
Origin: Hebrew, Spanish, Italian
Derivation: The name Isabella is a form of Elizabeth, which is derived from the Hebrew name Elisheva.
Meaning: My God is an Oath, Pledged to God
Who Is Isabella Bird? Isabella Bird (1831–1904) was an English explorer, writer, and naturalist. She traveled extensively around the world, documenting her experiences in books that became popular travel literature. Bird was the first woman to be elected as a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.
3. Dorothea
Origin: Greek
Derivation: The name Dorothea is derived from the Greek name ‘Dorotheos,’ which is composed of ‘doron,’ meaning ‘gift,’ and ‘theos,’ which means ‘god.’
Meaning: Gift of God, God Is My Gift
Who Is Dorothea Dix? Dorothea Dix (1802–1887) was an American social reformer and advocate for the mentally ill. She lobbied for the creation of the first generation of American mental asylums and served as Superintendent of Army Nurses during the Civil War. Her work greatly improved the treatment and care of the mentally ill.
2. Grace
Origin: Latin
Derivation: The name Grace is derived from the Latin word ‘gratia.’
Meaning: Grace, Charm, Grateful
Who Is Grace Darling? Grace Darling (1815–1842) was an English lighthouse keeper’s daughter who became famous for her daring rescue of shipwrecked survivors in 1838. Her bravery and heroism captured public imagination and she became a national heroine.
1. Ellen
Origin: Greek, English
Derivation: The name Ellen is a variant of Helen, which is derived from the Greek name ‘Helene.’
Meaning: Light, Torch
Who Is Ellen Terry? Ellen Terry (1847–1928) was an English stage actress, widely considered one of the leading Shakespearean actresses of her time. She was known for her beauty, talent, and charismatic stage presence. Terry’s career spanned over six decades, during which she performed in numerous notable productions.
Don’t Victorian Girl Names Have a Beautiful Elegance To Them?
Welcome to the exciting journey of parenthood, where the joy of welcoming a baby girl is matched only by the delightful challenge of finding the perfect name for her – something that’s much easier said than done!
Whether you’re inspired by the timeless classics of the Victorian Era, or more modern names with rich meanings and stories, this adventure is all about finding a name that will shine as brightly as she does.
If you want our advice, we recommend exposing yourself to as many baby names as possible – even if you have a strong interest in Victorian girl names, don’t be afraid to venture outside of that preference.
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With that said, we wish you nothing but the best in this journey. And if you need a little extra inspiration or some fresh ideas, try checking out our Mamas Uncut blog – there’s plenty more where that came from!