Valerian is a name of Latin origin that means "healthy" or "strong". It comes from the Latin word "valere", which means to be strong, healthy, or well. The name Valerian has been used throughout history and has been associated with several notable figures.
In Roman mythology, Valerius was a legendary family name, and many members of this family held prominent positions in ancient Rome. One of the most famous members of the Valerian family was Publius Valerius Publicola, who played an important role in the founding of the Roman Republic after the overthrow of the last king.
The name Valerian has also been used by several rulers throughout history. For example, Emperor Valerian I ruled the Roman Empire from 260 to 268 AD, and was known for his military victories against the Goths. Another notable ruler named Valerian was Valerian II, who ruled the Eastern Roman Empire (also known as the Byzantine Empire) in the late 9th century.
In more recent times, the name Valerian has gained popularity due to its use in popular culture. For example, it is the name of a character in the film series "Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets", which was released in 2017. The name has also been used by several musicians, such as Valerian Angeloff, a Bulgarian musician who gained fame in the early 20th century.
Overall, the name Valerian is one that has stood the test of time, with its origins dating back to ancient Rome. Its meaning of "healthy" or "strong" makes it a popular choice for parents looking for a name that signifies strength and vitality. Despite its historic roots, Valerian remains a unique and distinctive name that continues to be used today.
The name Valerian saw a significant surge in popularity from the late 2010s to early 2020s, with 24 births recorded in 2018 and consistently high numbers until 2023 (17-18 births annually). However, this trend is quite recent as there were only 5 births or fewer annually between 1965 and 2004. The name's popularity peaked in the early to mid-20th century, with over 10 births recorded each year from 1927 to 1934, reaching a high of 17 births in 1927 and 15 births in 1934. After World War II, its popularity declined significantly until the recent resurgence.