Lillian

Lillian is an English name that developed as an elaborated form of Lily, itself derived from the Latin lilium and Greek leirion, denoting the lily flower, long associated with purity and beauty. The name came into widespread use in the English-speaking world during the late nineteenth century, when flower names enjoyed broad popularity. Notable bearers include American dramatist Lillian Hellman and actress Lillian Gish, both of whom helped cement the name's cultural presence. Related forms include Lilian, Liliana, and Liliane, as well as the shorter pet form Lily.