Valerie is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It comes from the Latin word "valere," which means "to be strong" or "to be well." The name Valerie was first used as a masculine name in ancient Rome, but it has since become predominantly associated with females.
The name Valerie became popular during the Middle Ages in Europe, particularly among French nobility. It is believed that the name gained popularity due to its association with St. Valerie, a fourth-century martyr from Saragossa, Spain. St. Valerie was known for her strength and courage in the face of persecution, qualities that were admired by many.
Over time, the name Valerie has evolved and been adapted into various forms throughout different cultures. Some variations of the name include Valeria, Valentina, and even Valley. Despite these adaptations, the core meaning of the name - "to be strong" or "to be well" - remains consistent across all iterations.
Today, Valerie is still a popular given name for girls around the world. Its timelessness can be attributed to its strong meaning and rich history, which resonates with parents looking for meaningful names for their children.
The name Valerie experienced fluctuations in popularity between 1960 and 1964, with 7 births in 1960 and a decrease to 5 births in 1964. Over these five years, the total number of newborn girls named Valerie was 12.