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 notesIn 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.
Easily confused with
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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.
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.
