All about the name
Cecilly
Female
« Cecilly is a rare feminine given name of Latin origin, derived from 'caecus' meaning blind or sightless. Popularized by the French as a female form of Cecil, it was first recorded in England during the 16th century but gained popularity during the Victorian era's medieval name revival. »
#47007
since 1900
Meaning, origin, history
Cecilly is a rare and unique feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word 'caecus', which means blind or sightless. The name Cecilly is believed to have been popularized by the French, who used it as a female form of the male name Cecil.
The name Cecilly was first recorded in England during the 16th century, but it was not widely used until the Victorian era when there was a revival of interest in medieval names. Despite its Latin origins, Cecilly has been more commonly associated with English and French naming traditions.
In literature, one of the most notable appearances of the name Cecilly is in Thomas Hardy's novel "The Mayor of Casterbridge". The character Cecilia 'Cecilly' Smallways plays a significant role in the story. This may have contributed to the name's association with English literature and culture.
Overall, Cecilly is an uncommon but distinctive given name with Latin roots that has been predominantly used in English-speaking countries. Its meaning, while somewhat unusual, adds to its unique charm and appeal.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Cecilly since 1880
Total births
17
Total since 1880
Peak year
1989
7 births
in 1991
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years