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name

Lilian

LIH-lee-uhn

Lilian (name) means a female first name derived from the Latin word for "lily.". Example: “Lilian trained as a nurse during the war.”

name
1
A female first name derived from the Latin word for "lily."
"Lilian trained as a nurse during the war."

How to Use Lilian

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA classic flower-inspired girl's name, common in Britain.

UK vs US

Lilian is the more typical British spelling; Lillian (double L) is more common in American usage.

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_____ trained as a nurse during the war.

Etymology

In use since the 1500s; widely thought to come from Late Latin lilium ("lily"), though it may once have been a pet form of Elizabeth.

Origin: Late Latin · First attested 1500

Class of 1500 Lilian joined the language around 1500.
See the full Class of 1500 →

Rhymes for Lilian

See all rhymes for Lilian →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Lilian” mean?

The word “Lilian” means a female first name derived from the Latin word for "lily.". In plain terms, a classic flower-inspired girl's name, common in Britain.

How do you pronounce “Lilian”?

“Lilian” is pronounced LIH-lee-uhn (/ˈlɪli.ən/ in IPA).

How do you use “Lilian” in a sentence?

Here is “Lilian” used in a sentence: “Lilian trained as a nurse during the war.”

What part of speech is “Lilian”?

“Lilian” is a name.

Where does the word “Lilian” come from?

The word “Lilian” dates back to around 1500 and comes from Late Latin. In use since the 1500s; widely thought to come from Late Latin lilium ("lily"), though it may once have been a pet form of Elizabeth.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial