400+ Victorian Names from the 1800s
- Granville
Description:
Granville is a distinguished English place name and surname that originated from the Norman-French "grande ville," meaning "large town." Dating back to medieval times, it gained usage as a given name in the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly among families with connections to various Granville locations across England and France. The name carries an air of aristocratic heritage and old-world sophistication. While never extremely common, Granville experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century before declining in usage. Today, it represents a distinguished, vintage choice that suggests refinement and classic elegance. The name may appeal to parents interested in surnames as first names or seeking a dignified traditional option with historical resonance.
- Tryphena
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"softness, delicacy"Description:
Greek name found in the New Testament makes for one of the unique baby names still undiscovered from the Bible.
- Winfield
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"meadow, field"Description:
An English surname derived from multiple place names, which ranked in the Top 500 for boys in the US until the turn of the 20th century.
- Baden
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"son of Bade"Description:
If Braden and Caden, why not Baden?
- Alexandrina
Origin:
Greek, variation of Alexandra,Meaning:
"defending men"Description:
Alexandrina is the most elaborate and unusual of the Alex- girls's names.The real first name of Queen Victoria, who was given it in honor of her godfather, Alexander I of Russia (her childhood nickname was Drina), it would make a distinctive pick, even though some might find five syllables a bit much. It was particularly popular in Scotland in the 1930s.
- Alfreda
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"elf power,"Description:
With a meaning like "elf power," Alfreda could find some appeal among fantasy enthusiasts. "Freda" makes for a pleasant nickname.
- Livingstone
Description:
Livingstone is a masculine name of English origin, functioning primarily as a surname before occasional adoption as a first name. It derives from a place name meaning 'settlement of Leofwine's people,' combining the Old English personal name Leofwine with 'tūn' (settlement). The name gained considerable recognition through Dr. David Livingstone, the famous 19th-century Scottish missionary and explorer of Africa. As a first name, Livingstone projects qualities of adventure, discovery, and humanitarian values. While uncommon as a given name, it appeals to parents drawn to its historical significance and substantial, distinguished character. The name carries connotations of intellect, courage, and pioneering spirit.
- Josepha
Origin:
Feminine variation of Joseph, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
Josepha is less heard in this country than in other parts of the world, seen as a slightly awkward feminization a la Ricarda and Benjamina. In the U.S., Josephine or Joanna is the more usual feminine form of Joseph, though you might consider Josepha if you want to break rank.
- Jenkin
Origin:
FlemishMeaning:
"little John"Description:
Possible (and offbeat) middle name twist when honoring a familial John.
- Sallie
Origin:
Spelling variation of Sally, diminutive of Sarah, HebrewMeaning:
"princess"Description:
Sallie ranked highest along with other -ie ending girls' names in the 1800s. It's been downhill since then for Sallie, though she didn't fall off the Top 1000 until 1970.
- Hedley
Origin:
English surnameMeaning:
"heather clearing"Description:
A lively English surname that was popularly given as a male first name in the Victorian period, and is ripe for revival today.