Etymology & Historical Origin of the Baby Name Victoria

Victoria is a Late Latin female given name meaning, quite literally, “victory” (Victor is her male counterpart), derivative of the Latin verb “vincere” meaning “to conquer”. The Latin words have been traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root *weik- meaning “force, energy, to fight, conquer” as evidenced by other language forms: Old Norse “vigr” (able in battle), Olde English “wigan” (fight), Welsh “gwych” (brave, energetic), Old Slavic “veku” (strength, power) and even the Old Irish “fichim” (I fight). Victoria is also the ancient Roman goddess of victory; it was she who determined who would be victorious in battle and many temples were erected in her honor (she is the Roman equivalent of the Greek goddess Nike). The name Victor became popular among Christians in the Middle Ages as a symbolism of Christ’s victory over death and sin. Victoria was also popularized on continental Europe in medieval times due to the name’s association with a popular 3rd century saint (whose cult grew in the Middle Ages, particularly in Italy). However, Victoria was not a popular female name in England until the reign of Queen Victoria (who actually received her name from her German-born mother). Apparently everyone wants a piece of victory today because the name shows international appeal. It’s a high ranking and “victorious” baby girl’s name in the following countries: Denmark, Norway, Chile, the United States, Canada, Belgium, Australia and Spain.

All About the Baby Name – Victoria

Personality

OF THE GIRL NAME VICTORIA

The number Seven personality is deeply mystical and highly in tune with their spirituality. They operate on a different wavelength than the average joe. Spending time alone comes easily to Sevens, as it gives them time to contemplate philosophical, religious and spiritual ideas in an effort to find "real truth".  Sevens are wise, but often exude mystery as if they are tapped into something the rest of us don't understand. They love the outdoors and are fed by nature. Sevens are constantly seeking to understand human nature, our place in the universe, and the mystery of life in general. This makes them quite artistic and poetic, but they are also keen observers with high intellect - so they are equally scientific-minded. Sevens are charitable and care deeply about the human condition.

Popularity

OF THE GIRL NAME VICTORIA

Victoria is a steadfast favorite name for baby girls in America, transcending fashions of the day and fleeting fads. Its endurance is owed to the classical elegance and timelessness of its nature. There are only a few other names on the American popularity charts that can claim this distinction (Elizabeth, Catherine, Anna). Victoria rose to prominence in the English-speaking world during the reign of Queen Victoria and has maintained its popularity since. No doubt that the name Victoria has a formal, “queenly” resonance to it which appeals to many new parents. Current pop culture influence comes by way of the English pop-star and fashionista Victoria Beckham.

Quick Facts

ON VICTORIA

GENDER:

Girl

ORIGIN:

Latin

NUMBER OF SYLLABLES:

4

RANKING POPULARITY:

25

PRONUNCIATION:

vick-TOHR-ee-ah

SIMPLE MEANING:

Victorious, conqueror, fighter

Characteristics

OF VICTORIA

Mystical

Wise

Eccentric

Intuitive

Imaginative

Philosophical

Solitary

Cultural References to the Baby Name – Victoria

Literary Characters

OF THE BABY NAME VICTORIA

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

Childrens Books

ON THE BABY NAME VICTORIA

We cannot find any childrens books with the first name Victoria


Popular Songs

ON VICTORIA

Victoria
a song by The Fall

Welcome Back Victoria
a song by Jesus Jones

Victoria's Secret
a song by Toby Keith

Famous People

NAMED VICTORIA

Queen Victoria (Queen of England)
Victoria Jackson (actress/comic)
Victoria Principal (actress)
Victoria Adams (musician)
Victoria Beckham (musician)
Victoria Tennant (actress)
Victoria Wood (actress)
Victoria Wyndham (actress)
Victoria “Tori” Spelling (actress)

Children of Famous People

NAMED VICTORIA

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

Historic Figures

WITH THE NAME VICTORIA

Queen Victoria was the daughter of Edward (fourth son of King George III) and Princess Victoria Maria Louisa of Saxe-Coburg (sister of King Leopold of Belgium). Her father, Edward, died when she was eight months old thereby making her eventual heir to the throne since none of her three uncles had legitimate children of their own. She became Queen at the age of 18 when her uncle (William IV) died in 1837. Her reign is the longest lasting of any British monarchy (64 years). As a young Queen, Victoria leaned heavily on the Prime Minister, Lord Melbourne. Shortly into her reign, Victoria married her cousin Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg. Their marriage was a happy and loving 17 year union which produced nine children. Albert died of typhoid fever at the young age of 42 and Victoria sank into a deep and isolating depression. For the rest of her reign she wore black.