Valiant Violet: A name bursting with beauty
The name Violet, with its history and modern appeal, might be the perfect fit for your child.
This name fits a wide range of personalities and ages, growing with your child from the playground to professional life.
Pronunciation of the name
Violet is pronounced VY-uh-let, with emphasis on the first syllable.
It rhymes with “quiet,” making it a name that’s as pleasant to say as it is to hear.
This two-syllable name is straightforward, yet many might mistakenly stress the second syllable or soften the ‘t’ sound at the end.
Origin of the name
Violet traces its roots back to the Latin word “Viola,” which refers to the flower. It has been used in English-speaking countries since the 16th century.
The violet flower is associated with myths and symbolism in various cultures, often representing love and fertility.
As a name, Violet entered the mainstream due to its floral and natural connotations, fitting well with the trend of naming children after elements of nature.
Popularity of the name
Initially common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, its usage declined mid-century before experiencing a resurgence in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
In the early 1900s, Violet enjoyed consistent popularity, often securing a spot within the top 100 names. Its peak during this era was rank 77 in 1920. However, post-1920s, Violet began a gradual descent in the rankings. By the 1960s, it hovered around the 500s and 600s.
The name experienced a noticeable dip in the late 20th century. It completely vanished from the top 1000 list for a period in the late 1990s and early 2000s. This hiatus, however, was short-lived.
Violet made a return in the 2000s, and its ascent was nothing short of meteoric. By 2010, it had already clinched the 123rd spot, and in 2022, it proudly stood at rank 20.
Celebrities with the name
The name Violet has been chosen by several celebrities for their children and has been featured in various works of fiction.
- Violet Affleck — Daughter of actors Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck.
- Violet Krasinski — Daughter of actors Emily Blunt and John Krasinski, further associating the name with celebrity culture.
- Violet Madison Nash — Daughter of actress Christina Milian.
- Violet Parr — Character in “The Incredibles,” a strong, invisible girl, making the name popular among fans of the film.
- Violet Baudelaire — Protagonist in “A Series of Unfortunate Events,” known for her intelligence and resourcefulness.
- Violet Turner — Character on the TV show “Private Practice“.
- Violet Beauregarde — The gum-chewing young lady from Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”
Nicknames and variations
Violet has many nicknames and variations that may capture your interest.
Nicknames
- Vi — Simple and sweet
- Lettie — Charming and vintage
- Vivi — Lively and spirited
Variations
- Violette (French) — Adds an elegant touch
- Viola (Italian) — Classical and timeless
- Violeta (Spanish) — Rich and vibrant
- Violeth — A modern twist with an ‘h’ at the end
- Vyiolet — Unique spelling with ‘y’ for a contemporary feel
Similar names
- Lilac — Another flower name with a lilting sound
- Iris — A Greek name meaning ‘rainbow,’ also floral
- Rose — Timeless and floral, with many variations
- Lavender — A name that’s both floral and aromatic
- Hazel — Evokes nature with a vintage vibe
- Ruby — A gemstone name, rich with color and character
- Scarlett — Another color-inspired name, bold and beautiful
- Sienna — Inspired by the earthy tone, for those drawn to color names
- Daisy — Cheerful and sunny, another enduring flower name
- Ivy — Simple and nature-inspired, with vintage charm
The history of the name Violet (1920s)
The origin of the fragrant and poetic name of Violet is shrouded in mystery. The name Ylolante appeared in the south of France, north of Spain, and Italy early in history, but there was no clue to its origin and apparently, like Topsy, “it just grew.”
Etymologists with a fanciful turn of mind have identified it with the lovely golden violet which was the prize of troubadours of old in the courts of love; other authorities believe that it may have been a form of some old Latin name such as Valentine.
The Latin name for the little purple flower that lifts its modest head in the spring is “Viola.” Violante was popular as a feminine name in Spain, but France changed her to Yolunde or Yolette. An old English form was Joletta. Scotland however, reached out and appropriated the name, changing it to Violet.
It is thought that this latest version came through a connection of the Archers of the Royal Guard, or perhaps through Queen Mary’s friend, Violet Forbes. Certainly, the name spread in popularity in England and Scotland, where Violets were almost as numerous as the Marys of the Catholic communities of today.
Perhaps the most famous Violet of history was LaVioletta, the young dancer, so called by Maria Theresa who became the wife of David Garrick, the brilliant English tragedian.
Viola was the form preserved by Italy, and it still reigns in undisputed popularity there. It gradually penetrated England and was elevated to favoritism through Shakespeare’s lovely heroine of “A Winter’s Tale.”
Violet’s flower is, of course, her fragrant and modest namesake, the violet. It signifies modesty. Her talismanic gem is the bloodstone, which promises her bodily health, guards her from deception and distressing news, and preserves her faculties. If the stone is given to her by a lover, it will ensure lasting and sincere devotion. Thursday is her lucky day and 5 her lucky number.
