Latin Origin

Valerie

The French feminine form of the Roman Valerianus, meaning 'strong' and 'vigorous,' Valerie became quintessentially modern through 20th-century popular culture and entertainment. It's a sophisticated yet approachable name that strikes a perfect balance between classic elegance and contemporary accessibility.

Valerie is a girl's name of Latin origin. The French feminine form of the Roman Valerianus, meaning 'strong' and 'vigorous,' Valerie became quintessentially modern through 20th-century popular culture and entertainment. It's a sophisticated yet approachable name that strikes a perfect balance between classic elegance and contemporary accessibility.

Extremely popular in the US and English-speaking countries from the 1950s-1990s; carries vintage-chic associations.

Origin & Etymology

The name Valerie has roots in the Latin language tradition. It derives from elements meaning “The French feminine form of the Roman Valerianus, meaning 'strong' and 'vigorous,' Valerie became quintessentially modern through 20th-century popular culture and entertainment”.

Cultural context: Extremely popular in the US and English-speaking countries from the 1950s-1990s; carries vintage-chic associations.

As a girl's name, Valerie carries the character of its Latin heritage while remaining a distinctive and uncommon choice for parents seeking something unique.

Popularity Trend
Famous Valeries5
V

Valerie Plame

PoliticsAmerican

Former CIA officer at center of 2003 identity leak scandal

An American former CIA officer whose identity was publicly revealed in 2003, sparking a major political scandal during the George W. Bush administration. She later became an author and political commentator.

1966 – present

V

Valerie Bertinelli

EntertainmentAmerican

Actress on 'One Day at a Time' and 'Hot in Cleveland,' Food Network personality

An American actress and television personality best known for her role as Barbara Cooper on the sitcom 'One Day at a Time' and later as Melinda Carlton on 'Hot in Cleveland.' She has also become well-known as a Food Network personality and author.

1960 – present

V

Valerie Giscard d'Estaing

PoliticsFrench

Former First Lady of France, cultural patronage and arts advocacy

The wife of former French President Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, she served as First Lady of France from 1974 to 1981 and was known for her cultural patronage and modernizing influence on the presidency.

1941 – present

V

Valerie Harper

EntertainmentAmerican

Actress, iconic role as Rhoda on 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'

An acclaimed American actress and dancer best known for her iconic role as Rhoda Morgenstern on 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' and the spin-off 'Rhoda.' She won a Golden Globe and an Emmy for the character.

1939 – 2019

V

Valerie Solanas

Arts & LiteratureAmerican

Radical feminist writer, author of 'SCUM Manifesto'

An American radical feminist writer and author of the 'SCUM Manifesto,' a provocative critique of patriarchal society published in 1967. She is also known as the person who shot Andy Warhol in 1968.

1936 – 1988

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Valerie mean?

Valerie means "The French feminine form of the Roman Valerianus, meaning 'strong' and 'vigorous,' Valerie became quintessentially modern through 20th-century popular culture and entertainment. It's a sophisticated yet approachable name that strikes a perfect balance between classic elegance and contemporary accessibility.", and is of Latin origin.

Is Valerie a girl name?

Valerie is primarily used as a girl's name.

What is the origin of the name Valerie?

Valerie is of Latin origin. Extremely popular in the US and English-speaking countries from the 1950s-1990s; carries vintage-chic associations.

Quick Facts
Gender

Girl

Syllables

4

Origin

Latin

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