What does the name Violet Mean? In this quick guide, we will explore the origin, history, popularity, and meaning of the name Violet.
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Meaning of The Name Violet
The meaning of the name Violet is associated with the purple flower, which symbolizes royalty and elegance. The name dates back to Roman times, when a wreath of violets was presented to the winner of a chariot race.
The color itself is seen as a representation of wisdom and spirituality, and Violet is often chosen as a symbol for those who are wise beyond their years. The Greek meaning of Violet is purple or blue-violet in color and it symbolizes faithfulness in relationships. Depending on culture, it can even stand for romance and innocence.
Some connotations are linked to royalty due to its link with the Roman roots mentioned above where it was used to represent emperors and kings. Violet stands for creativity, understanding, dreaminess, compassion, warmth and strength.
As an individual name for girls in English-speaking countries (and contemporary Hebrew) it was originally taken from horticulture – derived from both Latin “viola” or “violet” and Greek “ion”, itself reflecting the hue of bluish violets.
History and Origin of The Name Violet
The name Violet is originally derived from the flower of the same name. The Greek word for violet was “ion” or “iolos”, from which ison and viola were derived.
The English derivative, the flower known as ‘Violet’ can be traced back to Medieval Latin and Old French, with variations being found in classical Latin, Greek and Italian languages. Although Violet wasn’t commonly used as a given name until the Victorian era, it was popular as a nickname over centuries prior.
Violets symbolize modesty and faithfulness in many countries around the world. It has also been used to represent secrecy and mysteries due to its dusky shade of blue-purple color that hints at these qualities.
As a feminine given name, Violet was particularly popular in England during Queen Victoria’s reign in honor of her favorite color. By 1916 it had become firmly established in America and gradually replaced earlier nicknames for Elizabeth: Bessie, Bessy and Betsy among them.
In modern times, violet is also associated with new beginnings, growth and rebirth – particularly in connection with Easter festivals-because of its ubiquitous bloom during springtime celebrations around the world. It can also represent understanding – perhaps because it has been said that wearing a sprig of violets prods someone towards more thoughtful behavior!
Whatever association to nature you choose to give it – there’s no denying that Violet remains an elegant choice for parents today!
Gender of The Name Violet
Violet is a feminine given name in English. It originally meant “purple” and was adapted from the flower of the same name, which ultimately derives from Latin viola (“flower”).
The original flower name comes from “viole”, derived from the Latin verb violare (“to be passionate”), with allusion to its intense colour. Additionally, in parts of Europe, violet was known as “organity” (from the Latin word organum), a derivative of organon (“tool”, “instrument”).
Violet is used as both a given name and surname in various countries around the world. It is relatively popular as a girl’s first name in many countries, including Australia, Canada, Sweden and the United States.
It has also been used as a given name for both genders in some cultures; for example, it was historically used as both a boy’ and girl’s first name in England. In some cases it is used to refer to people with lavender-coloured skin or purple hair.
Popularity of The Name Violet
The popularity of the name Violet has seen a steady increase over the last few years. It is currently ranked number 98 in the U.S., although it has reached as high as 40 in some states.
The name originated in Medieval Britain, where it was derived from the Latin word “viola” meaning “violet flower”. The name also has religious connotations, as Violet is also a shade of purple which symbolized royalty and spirituality.
Violet is also associated with other meanings, such as intelligence, loyalty and thoughtfulness due to its appropriate association with the color violet and its soft temperament. The name often connotes mystery, creativity and grace which can be attractive qualities among parents looking for names for their new babies.
The popularity of ‘Violet’ likely grew alongside the increasing availability of literature from Middle-Ages Europe, including works by Shakespeare who mentioned violets several times throughout his work.
As Christianity spread throughout Europe and various aspects of life were named after biblical symbols or figures, many parents became increasingly interested in selecting related names for their children. By selecting names such as Violet amongst other flower-inspired monikers —Rose, Daisy and Lily— parents were able to convey a certain level of faithfulness through their children’s named while still allowing them retain some unique flair.
Variations of The Name Violet
The name Violet has a long history, with variations found in the many languages of the world — from Latin to French. In some cultures, such as in Spanish-speaking countries and most of Central and South America, “Violeta” is a common variation.
In other cases, such as in France where the dominant language is French, it’s more commonly known as “Violette”.
Violet can also have many different spellings. It may be: Vyolett, Violetta, Violeth, Vioulette (French spelling), Violla (Greek), Violleta (Spanish), Wiola (Polish), or Violetto/Violetti (Italian).
Variations in other languages often focus on a similar sound in addition to the meaning behind the word. For example: Wiolan/Wiolanka(Polish) and Wei Lin (Chinese). Additionally, there are several derivatives of this name that have evolved over time such as Viuola (Italian) and Violettehudelot (French).
No matter which variation you choose for your child or yourself, they all will carry with them the main meaning behind their beautiful name: “purple.”
Famous People Named Violet in History
Violet has been a given name used since the medieval era, and many famous and prominent people have had this unique name. From literary figures such as Violet Fane, to the first female Prime Minister of Thailand Khun Ying Violet, there have been many inspiring figures who have gone down in history with the name “Violet”.
In literature, William Shakespeare created a character named Mistress Overdone who was also known as Mistress Violet. This vintage moniker was brought to life by characters from Lewis Carroll’s Alice In Wonderland with the Queen of Hearts’ companion Violet Queenie.
The daughter of former French president Nicolas Sarkozy and model-singer Carla Bruni is also named Violet. Actresses such as Kristen Wiig and Isla Fisher both chose this for their daughters’ names.
It’s also been the name of two famous literary works – The Awakening by Kate Chopin featured an unforgettable protagonist called Edna Pontellier, while Louisa May Alcott wrote a novel in 1878 called Eight Cousins where she featured Rose and Violet Campbell.
Notable individuals whom share or shared this exotic sounding name include renowned American fashion designer Vivienne Westwood (born 1939), author Freya Stark (1893 – 1993), Spanish campaigner in support of LGBT rights Marcela Aquino (aka Marcela Cibils) born in 1955 and Indian actress Judy Campbell née Blumberg (1922 – 2004).
Famous heirs include Chloe Green’s daughter who is nicknamed ‘Pip’. There have also been several iconic singers over the years that carry this floral themed name, including LeToya Luckett from Destiny’s Child fame, British singer-songwriter VV Brown (aka Victoria Brown) plus popular recording artiste Lil Peep (born Gustav Elijah Åhr in 1996).
Pronunciation of The Name Violet
The name Violet is pronounced VIE-let. The name is largely associated with its origin in the Latin language, meaning “purple.” This was the color associated with this particular species of flower, which has come to be featured in literature and other works of art throughout history.
It also is derived from the Latin verb violare, which means “to violate,” though it should be noted that Violet does not necessarily have a meaning associated with violence or aggression; instead, it’s intended to represent something unique and attractive.
Numerology of The Name Violet
The numerology of the name Violet takes its meaning from one of the oldest forms of divination – numerology. This ancient practice assigns numbers to each letter in a name and those numbers represent specific vibrations that produce meanings related to one’s destiny.
In the case of a name like Violet, the associated letter is V and this is associated with number 6. The vibration associated with this number is one that stands for order, diplomacy, beauty and responsibility. It’s a number associated with forgiveness and understanding – but also loyalty and assertiveness.
Those who fall under its vibration often have deep emotional connections with their friends as well as strong ties to family members. Those blessed by this number are usually strong willed individuals who aren’t afraid of hard work in order to provide for their own or fulfill dreams their heart desires.
With a number 6 name like Violet you not only express emotional depth but there can also be mathematical intelligence or music talent too!
Frequently Asked Questions About The Name Violet
What Does The Name Violet Mean?
The name Violet is derived from the Latin word “Violaceus,” meaning “purple.” It became popularized in the English-language during the 19th century as a result of its association with a number of popular flower names. The meaning of Violet is often interpreted as a herbaceous shade, or strength and courage, depending on which language it is translated from.
How Common Is The Name Violet?
Violet has been consistently high in popularity since 1900, when it appeared among the Top 100 Baby Names in America. As of 2020, it was listed as number 20 among all baby names given to newborns that year. Despite its long-time popularity, it managed to stay among the Top 40 Baby Names until just recently dropping out by 2018.
What Language Does The Name Violet Come From?
The name Violet was derived from Latin; however, its influence can be felt across different milestones and cultures due to how widely spread this flower denomination has been throughout human history.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the meaning of the name Violet is a matter of personal interpretation and is based on the story or image that it evokes. While some may associate it with royalty and luxury, others may think of blooming flowers or a calm and peaceful disposition.
Regardless of your opinion, one thing is certain; the unique beauty of Violets can never be denied.
Whether you consider its vibrance, resilience in difficult weather conditions, or its natural healing properties, this simple flower symbolizes many positive qualities that should be reflected in our lives.
Disclaimer:
We DO NOT guarantee the accuracy of any listed name and its meanings. We collected these names with our best efforts. Though if you find any incorrect name or meaning please contact us at info@namesheaven.com