Olivia: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Olivia mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Latin: Olive tree, symbolizing peace

Gender: Female

Syllables: 4

Pronunciation: The name Olivia is pronounced o-liv-ee-uh

Olivia is a girl’s name with origins in Latin, French, and Old Norse. This name is originally derived from the Latin word oliva, meaning “olive” and “olive tree.” In French, the name means “peace,” and in Old Norse it means “kind one.”

Girl name variations

Famous people with this first name

Olivia Newton-John

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Olivia in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

Olivia Benson from Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - A dedicated and empathetic detective known for her strong leadership skills.
Olivia Pope from Scandal - A skilled crisis manager with a complex and intriguing personality.
Olivia Dunham from Fringe - An intelligent and determined FBI agent involved in investigating unusual phenomena.
Olivia Moore from iZombie - A medical resident turned zombie who uses her abilities to solve crimes.
Olivia "Liv" Moore from Liv and Maddie - A spirited and outgoing teenager navigating life's challenges with humor and resilience.

Popularity of the Name Olivia

According to Social Security Administration data, Olivia has surged in popularity, claiming the spot as one of the top five names for girls in recent years. Specifically, it reached the number one spot in 2019 and has remained highly popular since. Olivia has been a top 100 name for girls since the late 20th century, showcasing its enduring appeal.

Historical figures with the name include Olivia de Havilland, a British-American actress known for her work during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Additionally, Olivia has been a popular choice for fictional characters in various media titles, such as Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare, showcasing its timeless charm across centuries.