Etymology & Historical Origin of the Baby Name Valerie

The name Valerie is the French variant of Valeria. Valeria comes from the Latin word “valere” which means ‘to be healthy, strong’ or ‘valorous.’ Valeria is the feminine form of Valerius, which was a Roman surname dating back to Antiquity. The name was popularized in the Middle Ages (particularly in France) in homage to a 3rd century saint, St. Valerie, who was beheaded for her Christian beliefs and is said to have carried her own head back to her confessor (the bishop who had converted her). Today, Valerie is no longer a Top 100 favorite in France, but the name has become widespread among English-speaking countries.

All About the Baby Name – Valerie

Personality

OF THE GIRL NAME VALERIE

The number Nine personality represents the completion or ending of the cycle, and a need for perfection. This is the personality that moves from "self" to a greater understanding and compassion for the human condition and the world order. They want to make the world a better place. Nines are capable of great spiritual and humanitarian achievements. They are courageous and fearless, able to fight great battles on behalf of worthy causes. These personalities will not tolerate injustice. They are compassionate people with a strong sensitivity to others. They are able to both educate and inspire. Friendships and relationships are the lifeblood to the Nine, and they place a high value on love and affection. Nines are often exceptionally gifted artistically, and they have a keen imagination and enterprising mind.

Popularity

OF THE GIRL NAME VALERIE

The name Valerie has been around in America since the government began tracking naming trends in 1880. At the turn of the 20th century, Valerie experienced low levels of success in terms of usage; however, as the first half of the century progressed, so did the name Valerie. By mid-century, Valerie was clearly a preferred name choice for little girls. The name’s peak of popularity happened during the 1950s and 60s, but she held onto a Top 100 spot up until 1988. In the past 20 years, Valerie has lingered around 150th place on the charts – which means this name is bestowed upon roughly 2,000 baby girls each year. The Spanish version of the name, Valeria, is currently more popular in America. Nonetheless, Valerie is very French which gives it an added element of simple sophistication and elegance (like Chloe, Julie, Daphne). They like Valerie in California where it was ranked #40 most popular girl’s name in 2010 – and after all, California is arguably a style-setting state. Valerie is a robust choice for little girls; “healthy and strong” like the name suggests. It’s not old-fashioned by any means, but it does contain a mid-century sensibility.

Quick Facts

ON VALERIE

GENDER:

Girl

ORIGIN:

French

NUMBER OF SYLLABLES:

3

RANKING POPULARITY:

169

PRONUNCIATION:

VA-lә-ree

SIMPLE MEANING:

Healthy, strong, valorous

Characteristics

OF VALERIE

Multi-talented

Intuitive

Oneness

Idealistic

Philanthropy

Independent

Perfection

Cultural References to the Baby Name – Valerie

Literary Characters

OF THE BABY NAME VALERIE

We cannot find any significant literary characters by the name of Valerie

Childrens Books

ON THE BABY NAME VALERIE

We cannot find any childrens books with the first name Valerie


Popular Songs

ON VALERIE

Valerie
a song by Steve Winwood

Famous People

NAMED VALERIE

Valerie Bertinelli (actress)
Valerie Harper (actress)

Children of Famous People

NAMED VALERIE

We cannot find any children of famous people with the first name Valerie

Historic Figures

WITH THE NAME VALERIE

We cannot find any historically significant people with the first name Valerie