Back to Search

Lily

Lily is derived from the Latin 'lilium', which represents purity and innocence, often associated with the beautiful white flower. The name has been used since the 19th century and gained popularity during the Victorian era when botanical names became fashionable. Symbolically, the lily is tied to both purity and renewal, holding a cultural significance in Christian iconography as a symbol of the Virgin Mary.

IPA: /ˈlɪli/ · Simplified: LIL-ee

Female
Latin
Western
Europe
elegant
graceful
pure
timeless

70/100

Popularity

Rising

10-Year Trend

7

Countries

2022

Peak Year

Meaning of Lily

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

Lily is derived from the Latin 'lilium', which represents purity and innocence, often associated with the beautiful white flower. The name has been used since the 19th century and gained popularity during the Victorian era when botanical names became fashionable. Symbolically, the lily is tied to both purity and renewal, holding a cultural significance in Christian iconography as a symbol of the Virgin Mary.

Does Lily flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Lily

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈlɪli/ · Simplified: LIL-ee

Nicknames for Lily

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Lil
Lils
Lily-Bug
Lilo

Lily name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

85

United Kingdom

83

Australia

80

United States

79

New Zealand

78

Canada

77

Ireland

60

Netherlands

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Lilly

Lillian

Liliana

Names like Lily

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Lily

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

Individuals named Lily are often perceived as gentle and nurturing, reflecting the beauty and grace of the flower itself. They may be seen as caring, empathetic individuals who bring a sense of calm and harmony to their surroundings. Like the flower they are named after, Lilys often bloom under pressure, showcasing resilience and adaptability.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Lily

Well-known figures who share this name.

L

Lily Collins

British-American actress and model, known for her roles in 'Emily in Paris' and 'Mirror Mirror', born 1989

L

Lily Tomlin

American actress, comedian, writer, and producer, acclaimed for her work in 'Grace and Frankie' and '9 to 5', born 1939

Frequently asked questions about Lily

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Lily mean?
Here is the meaning behind Lily: Lily is derived from the Latin 'lilium', which represents purity and innocence, often associated with the beautiful white flower. The name has been used since the 19th century and gained popularity during the Victorian era when botanical names became fashionable. Symbolically, the lily is tied to both purity and renewal, holding a cultural significance in Christian iconography as a symbol of the Virgin Mary.
Is Lily a boy or girl name?
Lily is traditionally a girl's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Lily?
Lily scores 70/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2022.
What are good nicknames for Lily?
Popular nicknames for Lily: Lil, Lils, Lily-Bug, Lilo.
What names are similar to Lily?
Names similar to Lily: Rose, Daisy, Ivy, Violet — close in sound, origin, or style.

Namelia

AI-powered baby name generator. Find a meaningful name that fits your culture, language, and family.


© 2026 Namelia. All rights reserved.